Manchester United continue to be linked with a host of strikers as the January transfer window approaches.
Erik ten Hag admitted this week that the club would like to add a centre-forward option following the departure of Cristiano Ronaldo last month. The 37-year-old’s release via mutual consent means Anthony Martial is the only recognised centre-forward in the squad. Given the Frenchman’s injury record this season, it presents a huge problem for Ten Hag in the second period of the campaign.
Marcus Rashford has also deputised as a central striker at times this season, but as the World Cup showed, his best performances come from the wide areas. Jadon Sancho’s ongoing absence from the senior squad also emphasises the need for Rashford to play on the flanks.
Therefore, bringing in another forward is of paramount importance to the Red Devils, although the situation is made more complicated by the Glazers’ ongoing plans to sell the club. That is creating an extra layer of uncertainty around Old Trafford, even if the Glazers have not directly funded transfers in recent years.
ManchesterWorld understands that funds are available for United to sign a forward in January, but this could impact the club’s summer budget, albeit the precarious situation surrounding a takeover means it’s difficult to judge how finances will look in six months’ time.
Meanwhile, several names continue to crop up in the gossip columns as United search for a No.9. We’ve had a look through the latest rumours and rated which transfers could happen and which are unlikely to take place.
1. Tammy Abraham: Unlikely
A transfer which has seen fewer and fewer reports in recent weeks, especially given the attacker’s underwhelming form in Serie A - Abraham has netted just four goals in 20 appearances in all competitions this season. Indeed, his performances have dropped so markedly this term it has prompted rumours in Italy that Abraham could be on the move in January, yet United seems an unlikely destination for the former Chelsea man.
2. Memphis Depay: Possible
The striker has been linked with a move to several clubs in the January window and has struggled with injuries this season, while Xavi doesn’t appear convinced by the Dutchman. It seems very plausible that Barcelona allow him to leave mid-season, and Depay’s previous links with United mean this rumour can be afforded more credence.
3. Joao Felix: Possible
His relationship with Diego Simeone appears to have totally broken down and Felix looks likely to leave Atletico Madrid either in January or the summer. Assuming he departs, Old Trafford seems as likely a venue as anywhere given their need for a striker, ability to pay high wages and the attraction of the Premier League. But recent reports suggest the Portugal international could cost over £80m, a fee United would struggle to pay, especially in January. A mid-season loan looks more likely than a blockbuster transfer.
4. Victor Osimhen: Unlikely
The Napoli striker has been linked with a move to United in recent years, yet his stock has never been higher than it is at present. Osimhen has netted nine in 11 Serie A matches this season and has a contract which runs to 2025, meaning he is probably one of the most expensive centre-forwards on the market. There have even been suggestions it would take a British record transfer fee to sign Osimhen, something United simply aren’t going to be able to afford in January.