Over the last couple of months, Manchester United have taken huge strides to improve their frontline, with the difference between the current campaign and last simply night and day.
The Red Devils only managed to score 44 times in their 38 Premier League outings in 2024/25, but the side have already made a huge dent into such a tally this time around.
However, after the first 22 matches of 2025/26, the side have already found the net on 36 occasions, just eight shy of last season’s tally with 16 matches to spare.
Middlesbrough manager Michael Carrick before the match
No doubt, the improvement has been aided by the £200m spending spree during the summer window, which saw three new faces arrive and nail down their starting role in the final third.
Despite the recent form of the aforementioned trio, the hierarchy are still targeting added reinforcements, which could see Michael Carrick’s squad bolstered further in the near future.
Man Utd exploring move to land a new talisman
With the window drawing to a close in the next week or so, United will have to work quickly to complete any deals, with RB Leipzig star Yan Diomande just one option being considered.
Throughout the winter window, the Red Devils have been constantly linked with a move for the Ivorian star, who’s already netted six league goals in 2025/26 to date.
Yan Diomande for RB Leipzig
However, it’s been confirmed that the Bundesliga side would be demanding a fee in the region of £90m to part ways with the attacker - a fee that would be a club-record.
He’s not the only option currently in the hierarchy’s sights at present, with Levante talisman Etta Eyong also being considered as a possible addition for Carrick.
Levante's Etta Eyong celebrates scoring their first goal
According to journalist Ben Jacobs, United are currently monitoring the 22-year-old’s progress, with the striker currently sitting on six goals from his first 17 league outings in 2025/26.
However, it appears they are not alone in the pursuit of the Cameroonian’s signature, with the Red Devils joined by Arsenal, Real Madrid and Barcelona in "exploring" a potential move.
Levante's Etta Eyong celebrates scoring their first goal
Despite the update from Jacobs, there has been no fee mentioned for his services, with the talisman currently having another three years left on his current deal.
Why Etta Eyong would be United’s next Mbeumo
As part of the aforementioned £200m spending spree in the summer, United forked out a reported £71m on the services of forward Bryan Mbeumo from fellow Premier League side Brentford.
Amad-Bryan-Mbeumo-Man-Utd
The Cameroonian generated huge excitement within the Red Devils fanbase after netting 20 times in the league last season, with the 26-year-old already making an excellent start to life at Old Trafford.
He’s already netted seven goals in his first 17 league outings for the club, with such a tally currently making him the top goalscorer within Carrick’s squad.
His latest strike against Manchester City has no doubt improved his stock amongst the fans, with the Cameroonian undoubtedly one of the squad’s most important players at present.
However, the board could replicate such a move for Etta Eyong in the near future, with any deal allowing the 22-year-old to follow in his compatriot’s footsteps at the Theatre of Dreams.
Atletico Madrid's David Hancko in action with Levante's Etta Eyong
Both are capable of operating as a central striker or in wide areas, with the pair already thriving together on the international stage during the recent African Cup of Nations.
Given Mbeumo’s incredible start to life in Manchester, the youngster would certainly have a huge act to follow, but his stats in LaLiga this campaign showcase the talent he does possess.
Etta Eyong, who’s been dubbed “incredible” by talent scout Jacek Kulig, currently averages a goal or an assist in every other game, whilst posting a 43% shot on target accuracy rate.
Such numbers showcase his all-round talent in the final third, with both of the aforementioned figures ranking him in the top 10% of all attackers in Spain’s top-flight.
Etta Eyong - LaLiga stats (2025/26)
Statistics (per 90)
Games played
Goals & assists
Shot on target accuracy
Shots taken
Pass accuracy
Fouls won
Duels won
Aerials won
Fouls won
Stats via FotMob
He’s also completed 79% of the passes he’s attempted to date, whilst winning 1.7 aerial duels per 90 - numbers which could make him the perfect focal point for the Red Devils.
The 22-year-old is more than capable of going alone and finding the back of the net, but his all-round play could allow Mbeumo to reach the next level alongside him at Old Trafford.
etta-eyong-villarreal-rangers
However, without the ball, Etta Eyong could also have a huge impact, with the Cameroonian winning possession back 1.2 times per 90 in the final third so far this campaign.
His ability in and out of possession is a huge testament to his quality, subsequently showcasing why so many of Europe’s elite are battling to land his signature.
Given the interest, Carrick’s men must act quickly yo win the race for his services, with the youngster having all the tools to lead the line in the Premier League for many years to come.
The potential of the forward linking up with Mbeumo is truly one to be excited about, with the pairing having the chance to write their names in United history in the years ahead.
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