Manchester United have been linked with centre-forwards, as Brentford striker Igor Thiago has been "discussed" at Old Trafford.
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Manchester United currently have Benjamin Šeško, Bryan Mbeumo and Joshua Zirkzee as their striking options going into next season.
Šeško impressed last season, with 11 goals in his debut campaign in England – most of which came under Michael Carrick. Mbeumo looked good, too, also netting over 10 in his first season in red. The same cannot be said about Zirkzee, though.
The Dutchman scored just two goals last term, and only seven in 2024/25. He has never been an out-and-out goal-scorer, but his assist numbers have not made up for that fact either.
Zirkzee has impressed in pre-season, with a brilliant solo goal against Rosenborg, where two deft ball rolls sold the centre-back and the goalkeeper for an open net.
However, he has continued to be linked with a move away from Old Trafford.
Zirkzee decides Man Utd plan
While United's focus remains on adding a third midfield signing to their ranks this summer, it is not known how much they will be able to allocate on a centre-forward signing. However, Joshua Zirkzee's future could hold the answer.
"My information is that if Zirkzee goes, United will attack the number 9 market," said Ben Jacobs on The United Stand. "If he stays, they might line up something more experienced, more economical."
Jacobs continued to say that Manchester United have "discussed" Brentford centre-forward Igor Thiago, who spent the summer at the World Cup.
"Igor Thiago has been discussed," Jacobs continued. "Nothing more than that at this stage, more of an internal conversation and a normal player call to understand his situation."
The deal does not seem to be advanced, but it appears Thiago could emerge as an option for United this summer.
Manchester United completed their first senior sale of the summer on Thursday afternoon, with Tyler Fredricson moving to Lausanne-Sport, but Altay Bayindir could soon follow him out the door.roundtable.ioMan Utd's Altay Bayindir Holds Talks To Leave Old Trafford After Admission
Manchester United completed their first senior sale of the summer on Thursday afternoon, with Tyler Fredricson moving to Lausanne-Sport, but Altay Bayindir could soon follow him out the door.
United should go for experience
While it seems United's plans will change depending on Zirkzee's future, United should prioritise signing an experienced centre-forward whom Šeško can learn from.
The Red Devils need a striker who will be OK with sitting on the bench for most matches, while playing an integral role off the pitch, too. Danny Welbeck would have been perfect, in truth.
Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo and Marcus Rashford can all play through the middle if Carrick is looking for a more mobile option if Šeško is unavailable.
Signing another young striker while Šeško is still developing just does not make sense, especially with the attacking talent emerging through the youth ranks.