Which Young Strikers Could Manchester United Target In Summer Transfer Window?

Manchester United’s need for a new centre forward is clear. Cristiano Ronaldo’s departure before the 2022 World Cup opened a spot in Erik Ten Hag’s squad and while Wout Weghorst has filled it on loan from Burnley, the Dutchman isn’t the long term number nine required for United to become a force again.

Reports have linked Victor Osimhen with a move to Old Trafford this summer. The Nigerian has been a figurehead for Napoli this season with Luciano Spalletti’s team top of the Serie A table and in the quarter-finals of the Champions League. Osimhen would fit the bill for Ten Hag in terms of what he wants from a frontman.

Harry Kane might also be on the market this summer with the England captain still to sign a contract extension with Tottenham Hotspur. Kane is now Spurs’ all-time top scorer and could feasibly seek a new challenge at another club like Manchester United where he would have a better chance of winning a Premier
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However, United’s uncertain ownership situation means they might not have the transfer funds to sign a striker of this calibre. If the Glazers are still in place by the time this summer’s transfer window opens, there’s no guarantee they will wish to hand over a blank cheque to sign any of the players Ten Hag needs.

This could mean Manchester United have to shop at a lower level. They might have to be creative in the transfer market in order to provide Ten Hag with the attacking focal point he needs to turn his team into genuine title challengers next season. United might have to develop their next great number nine rather than buy one in.

Evan Ferguson could be one such option with the Republic of Ireland international enjoying a breakout season at Brighton. The 18-year-old already has a physical presence and possesses natural finishing instincts in front of goal. There’s good reason to believe Ten Had could mould Ferguson into a world class striker.

Atalanta’s Rasmus Hojlund has also been mentioned as a potential target with the 20-year-old who scored a hat trick on his first start for Denmark against Finland in Euro 2024 qualifying this week. Hojlund is mobile, can press from the front and is making major strides in his development. United are right to be monitoring his progress.

Ten Hag’s Manchester United team are a work-in-progress even if they have exceeded expectations under the Dutch coach this season. They require strengthening in several positions, but their need for a new striker is most pressing. Even if Ten Hag doesn’t get the player he wants, United must have a shortlist of alternatives.