Photo by Manuel Velasquez - FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images
Photo by Manuel Velasquez - FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images
Joshua Zirkzee’s chances of leaving Manchester United this summer were boosted amid news of a possible loan deal with Juventus.
It is understood Juventus are ready to attempt a deal to sign Joshua Zirkzee following reports Manchester United are open to a loan move.
The writing was on the wall for Zirkzee at Old Trafford after two disappointing seasons following a transfer from Serie A outfit Bologna. His performances during United’s 2026 pre-season tour have only helped cement the view that he isn’t of the required standard for a back-up in Michael Carrick’s side.
With Zirkzee potentially on his way out the door, United need to scan the striker market for options because Benjamin Sesko would benefit from proper competition or cover in his position.
Mateta playing against Nottingham Forest
Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images
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Jean-Philippe Mateta
In my opinion, Jean-Philippe Mateta is the best option on this list. He is Premier League-proven after serving Crystal Palace as a source of goals since 2021.
Standing at 6’4″, Mateta is a presence inside the box and can feed on crosses. This is something Sesko could benefit from because he could do with having an experienced striker to learn from at Old Trafford.
The striker market is limited, but Mateta should be seen as a cost-effective target man who could share the fixture load or help push Sesko to the next level.
Endrick
Unlike the other players on this list, Endrick has world-class potential. The Real Madrid forward has raw attributes such as explosive acceleration and a powerful shot that would likely see him become a force in the Premier League.
It would take a huge deal to get Endrick out of Real Madrid, unless Jose Mourinho decides to pass on the opportunity to develop one of football’s most exciting young players.
Matheus Cunha started ahead of Endrick at the 2026 World Cup, but I don’t think that will be the case again in four years.
Ollie Watkins
Like Mateta, Ollie Watkins has been linked to United in the past. He is also Premier League-proven after starring in a successful Aston Villa side for years.
A different type of striker to Mateta, Watkins, at his best, was known for relentless channel running and his pressing.
His poacher instincts are matched by unselfishness, as Watkins has an eye for assists as well as goals, making him a player his teammates benefit from having in the team.
Watkins’ overall Villa stats are 278 appearances, 108 goals and 47 assists.