Manchester United could enter the transfer market for a new striker if Joshua Zirkzee leaves.
The Dutchman has failed to meet expectations over the past couple of years at United, and he could move on this summer.
Zirkzee is the subject of interest from Juventus and Como, and United seem open to accepting an initial loan deal.
The Red Devils are likely to demand an obligation to buy for £26-30 million once the temporary move concludes.
Should Zirkzee make way, here are three candidates United may consider to compete with Benjamin Sesko upfront.
The Englishman has been a terrific performer for Villa over the years, and he had a fine 2025/26 season with 21 goals across all competitions.
Villa are in active talks over a move for Chelsea striker Nicolas Jackson, who previously worked under manager Unai Emery at Villarreal.
A deal could pave the way for Watkins’ exit. It has been claimed that United could make an approach for him if Zirkzee heads out of the club.
United could face competition from Arsenal for the £40m-rated striker. The Gunners previously attempted to sign Watkins in January 2025.
The Spaniard recently made the headlines by scoring a dramatic winning goal for La Roja in the World Cup final (1-0) against Argentina.
Torres had a good season with Barcelona too. He primarily operated as a striker for the Blaugrana, scoring 21 goals and providing three assists.
Despite this, he could be on his way out soon, with his contract expiring in June next year.
The Athletic claim Barcelona are prepared to sell him, given his former club Manchester City would need to be paid £6.8m if he were to extend his deal.
Estadio Deportivo report that he could be prised away for £39-43m.
Mateta has been linked with United in the past, but nothing has materialised beyond the speculation.
The 29-year-old has developed into one of the Premier League’s best strikers and has scored 42 goals in the division since the 2023/24 season.
He has hit double figures in each of those campaigns and would be a superb signing for United with his strong aerial and physical presence in the box.
United have shown that they are open to pursuing experienced solutions, having recently signed Aston Villa midfielder Youri Tielemans, who turned 29 in May.
Mateta was close to joining Milan for £30m last winter before a failed medical. With his contract expiring next summer, the Frenchman could be prised away for £20m, in our view.
Stats from Transfermarkt