Manchester United are ready to sign a big-name striker on a free transfer this summer if Joshua Zirkzee leaves Old Trafford before the September 1 deadline.
While Man United have focused on rebuilding their midfield, with a third addition still likely to arrive after the signings of Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans, club chiefs are still considering strengthening other areas on the pitch too.
The Red Devils have been linked with many left-sided attackers throughout the summer, including Morgan Rogers, Yan Diomande and Rafeal Leao, but any potential move there is unlikely to happen unless Marcus Rashford departs.
The current plan is for the England international to be given a chance to show his worth in pre-season by manager Michael Carrick, who is said to be keen to work with the attacker.
A big offer could change their stance as the club remain keen on reducing their wage bill, with Rashford one of the top earners in the team.
Left-back is another position where they potentially look short of depth, given their fixture list will be increasing this season because of their return to the Champions League.
As with Rashford, an exit for Zirkzee could see United move for a new centre-forward too, and they know the exact profile they want.
Dusan Vlahovic 'Mentioned' as Man United Target
Dusan Vlahovic in action for Juventus
According to the i Paper, three Italian clubs are considering making a move to bring Zirkzee back to Serie A after the Dutchman joined United from Bologna.
The report says that while the Red Devils are actively looking to sell the Netherlands international, they are open to offers for a player who has ultimately failed to make an impact at Old Trafford.
Juventus, AS Roma and Como are all said to have expressed an interest in the 25-year-old, lining up loan offers with either an option or an obligation to buy, although United would prefer a permanent sale now.
While no targets are being actively targeted while Zirkzee is still at the club, if he does leave then United could look to sign an experienced centre-forward to replace him on a short-term basis.
One player who has been mentioned is Dusan Vlahovic, who is one of the most intriguing free agents on the market after he left Juventus following the expiry of his contract.
The Serbia international, described as 'one of the best strikers in Europe' by former Italy coach Cesare Prandelli, was on big money at Juve, but also had an impressive record of 68 goals in 168 appearances for the Old Lady.
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Man United Miss Out on 'Perfect' Striker Option
Manchester United manager Michael Carrick looks onVia REUTERS/Scott Heppell
United look set to miss out on a 'perfect' striker option close to home, according to the same report, and one they are very familiar with.
If the Red Devils wanted an older striker with Premier League experience to help with Benjamin Sesko's development, there aren't many better than their former star, Danny Welbeck.
There had been little speculation about the Brighton and Hove Albion striker's future this summer, but out of the blue Chelsea now look set to swoop in and bring him to Stamford Bridge.
United fans would have loved to have had Welbeck back at Old Trafford, but they will have to look at alternative options if Zirkzee completes his exit.