Man United needs to add a quality number 9 before the new season. However, the Red Devils' plan is facing several difficulties.
Man United requires a top-class center-forward to complete their squad. In the 2022/2023 season, they lacked a quality number 9 as both Anthony Martial and Wout Weghorst failed to meet the requirements.
Several names have been linked to Man United recently. However, despite all efforts, manager Erik ten Hag has not been able to bring in a true goal scorer to Old Trafford. So, what is happening with Man United's attacking options?
- Harry Kane, Victor Osimhen out of reach
Harry Kane is considered the top target pursued by Man United this summer. However, the Red Devils have cooled their interest in the English striker as they focus on signing Mason Mount and Andre Onana.
At the moment, Bayern Munich is leading the race to sign Kane. Bayern Munich CEO Jan-Christian Dreesen has flown to London to meet Tottenham chairman Daniel Levy.
Osimhen's price tag is a hurdle for Man United. The Nigerian striker has also been linked to the club, but the Red Devils are hesitant due to Napoli's high valuation of around £150 million. The possibility of signing Osimhen seems unlikely at this time.
- Gambling on Rasmus Hojlund
Hojlund has attracted a lot of attention in the media recently. Many reliable sources suggest that Man United has plans to sign the Danish striker.
Atalanta is reluctant to sell Hojlund at a low price. According to Goal, the Italian club values the 20-year-old star at around £85 million. This is a hefty price tag for a young player with limited experience at the highest level.
However, Hojlund promises to bring a fresh breath of air to Man United's attack. His ability to move off the ball and impressive acceleration makes him a constant threat to the opposition's goal.
- Anthony Martial's unreliability
The French forward has been a major disappointment. In the 2022/2023 season, Martial missed a total of 33 games due to various injuries and never played a full 90 minutes.
Man United cannot solely rely on Martial in the attacking department. His lack of physical fitness is a significant limitation. Currently, Martial is recovering from a groin injury suffered at the end of last season.
- Marcus Rashford needs a quality partner
In the 2022/2023 season, Rashford was the leading goalscorer, accounting for 1/4 of Man United's goals. However, the 25-year-old star does not fit the typical target man profile.
Ten Hag needs to add a quality partner to play alongside Rashford in the attack. The English forward will be more explosive and effective when playing on the left flank, making diagonal runs and penetrating the opposition's defense.
- Avoid loan deals
Man United needs to learn from past mistakes. The club has not had much success with loan deals. Edinson Cavani had two underwhelming seasons, frequently sidelined due to injuries.
Most recently, Weghorst disappointed in the previous season. The Dutch striker failed to become a reliable goal scorer and share the burden with Rashford.
If Man United wants to compete on par with other top contenders, they need to invest and bring in a quality number 9 who can average around 20 goals per season.
