Manchester United’s Striker Search
Manchester United’s search for a new striker ahead of the upcoming season is looking increasingly uncertain, with the possibility of starting the campaign without a recognized forward becoming more likely. According to insider information shared with ESPN, despite the acquisition of notable talents Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo—who collectively netted 35 goals in the Premier League last season for a hefty investment of £135 million ($183 million)—the club is still actively pursuing options to strengthen their attack.
Offensive Struggles and Transfer Challenges
Last season saw United struggle offensively, finishing with only 44 league goals, prompting manager Ruben Amorim to seek further reinforcements. However, efforts to sign targets like Liam Delap, Viktor Gyökeres, and Hugo Ekitike have not materialized as hoped, leading to skepticism about securing a new striker before the imminent transfer deadline.
Current discussions with player agents and scouts are ongoing as the club weighs potential targets; however, it is understood that signing a new center forward would necessitate making adjustments to the squad.
Pre-Season Tour and Player Updates
As they embarked on their pre-season tour in the United States, arriving in Chicago this Tuesday, United included strikers Rasmus Højlund, Joshua Zirkzee, and Chido Obi in their traveling squad. Yet, both Højlund and Zirkzee faced difficulties last year, contributing only seven league goals combined. Though Højlund has been linked to a move back to Italy with clubs such as Inter Milan and Juventus showing interest, he reportedly prefers to compete for a starting role at Manchester United, where he still has three years left on his contract.
Potential Player Swap and Tactical Adjustments
There are also rumors of a possible player swap deal involving Chelsea, which could see Nicolas Jackson come to Old Trafford while Alejandro Garnacho heads to Chelsea for an estimated £40 million. Garnacho’s tour plans were interrupted after he was omitted from the summer trip to the U.S., and Jackson’s position at Chelsea remains precarious following their recent signings of Delap and João Pedro.
In a tactical twist, Amorim may consider deploying Mbeumo as a forward rather than in his usual No. 10 role within the preferred 3-4-3 formation. Mbeumo could make his debut for the club against West Ham this Saturday in New Jersey, should the final squad adjustments not affect his integration at the club.
