Man Utd will look to add a proven goal scorer to their squad in the summer transfer window.
You might not agree with it, but Manchester United have already missed out on their preferred striker target in the summer transfer window. It could prove to be a blessing in disguise.
Ruben Amorim wanted to add Liam Delap to his squad this summer, with the 22-year-old viewed as the best value for money option on the market due to his £30 million relegation release clause. He might have only scored 12 goals for Ipswich this past season, but that is still an impressive tally for a young player leading the line in a team that was destined for relegation.
Delap had the combination of mobility and physicality that Amorim wants so desperately this summer, and crucially, he is proven in the Premier League. United want to improve the fitness and athleticism of their first-team squad and have prioritised the addition of players who have already shown they can do it in the English top-flight.
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It is for those same criteria why moves for Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo make so much sense, but with regards to a striker signing, Premier League experience is a preference Amorim might need to relax.
Manchester United striker options this summer
If you now take Liam Delap out of the equation, there are not many other Premier League strikers who would be a compelling upgrade on their current options without being totally unrealistic and unaffordable.
Crystal Palace hero Jean-Philippe Mateta would bring physicality to the forward line but might not be the ideal fit for Ruben Amorim's tactical approach, while Bournemouth ace Antoine Semenyo is admired by the club but is not the natural centre-forward they are after. Jamie Vardy is available on a free transfer after his Leicester deal expired, but at 38-years-old he would have to be a backup option at very best.
United would probably be best served looking further afield for their striker signing and if they are prepared to spend big on Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo, then they should not be looking to cut corners when it comes to solving arguably the biggest problem in their squad.
Viktor Gyokeres is the elite option the club should do everything in their power to sign, but after a ludicrous season with Sporting he might be holding out for offers from teams in the Champions League who can guarantee a place on the biggest stage right now. RB Leipzig star Benjamin Sesko is another player admired by the club, though there is a growing sense he will move to Arsenal in the summer window.
Another important factor to consider is next summer's World Cup. For many players that is a dictating factor in their current transfer plans, as they look to play consistently at the highest level possible ahead of the tournament. It is why Paris Saint-Germain star Goncalo Ramos has been offered to numerous clubs already this summer, as he looks for a fresh start to keep his dream of leading the line for Portugal next summer alive. He is another who will likely prioritise Champions League offers this summer, with Liverpool a side that have been made aware of his availability.
Victor Osimhen is another elite option United could consider, but his wage demands are believed to be an issue and he is attracting serious interest from Saudi Arabia after failed moves for Mohamed Salah and Bruno Fernandes. Lower down the pecking order, United have also been linked with Serie A trio Moise Kean, Lorenzo Lucca and Mateo Retegui, though if they are after more budget friendly options then perhaps it would make more sense to sign one like Mateta given he is proven in the Premier League after all.
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