As Manchester United continue to move towards a successful summer window with Ruben Amorim, the futures of Liam Delap, Hugo Ekitike, and Victor Osimhen are in the spotlight.
Another scoreless outing in Sunday’s Manchester Derby solidified a paltry 37 Premier League goals for the season, emphasising a need for options to address the final-third issues within this squad.
A more comprehensive conversation is needed to identify the root cause of this fundamental decline. But, right or wrong, Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee will bear the brunt of the blame.
Inevitably, Amorim requires support and sound financial backing alongside Jason Wilcox to ensure his philosophy can excel to the utmost.
Although there are no guarantees that a newly recruited striker will alleviate the lack of goals in the North West, multiple options will maximise the prospects for success.
Having spent time with our colleagues in and around Carrington on Tuesday afternoon, the Theatre of Red has received updated information regarding the club’s pursuit of a forward and the various concerns regarding this critical decision.
Ruben Amorim has identified his summer requirements for a striker
For many, Osimhen is the standout option, given his experience and proven ability to find the net in multiple leagues alongside his exploits for his beloved Nigeria.
But, while his desire for a new challenge offers a tantalising prospect for Old Trafford officials, a hefty price tag and significant salary demands are a considerable stumbling block.
Furthermore, Ruben Amorim requires a particular type of forward to spearhead his tactical ideals, one who can offer himself as a target man to participate in various stages of the transition.
While Osimhen is an indisputable goalscorer, his limitations in the press and positioning with his back-to-goal are a factor. His bread and butter is predominantly a threat inside the area, and while this has proven valuable, some within the setup are unsure of his suitability for this project.
We’re told that officials consider his wage demands beyond comprehension when viewing the precarious financial situation. However, a deal has not been ruled out if a compromise is obtainable, given the potential he offers to hit the ground running.
Ekitike is a player we have covered in great detail at the Theatre of Red, and as we have exclusively revealed in March, the youngster has emerged as a viable option this summer.
Say what you will about age and a perceived lack of experience, but the Eintracht Frankfurt striker is a prime example of a player who matches the desired profile within Carrington.
Standing at an imperious 6-foot-3, the Frenchman is a clinical finisher with surprising pace and a notable predatory instinct. Furthermore, he is well-versed in leading the line as a sole striker, which lends to the buildup.
However, given the weight of the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability-shaped chains, a reported fee of €80 million is far beyond the capabilities of a Glazer-ravaged football club in need of a drastic facelift.
That said, we can confirm that Amorim rates the player highly, and there is confidence in a structured package to allow additions in multiple positions.
The availability of a Premier League-proven hitman in Delap has piqued the curiosity of many, with Wilcox a keen admirer of the youngster following their time at Manchester City.
It is well-documented that United are interested in the 22-year-old, and his 12 league goals for relegation-threatened Ipswich Town have enhanced his claim.
Delap is keen on remaining in the top tier, and a valuation of £40m appears to be a guideline for any approach. Furthermore, like Hugo, there is confidence in a structured package to ease summer concerns with the Winchester native.
However, similarly to the Frankfurt forward, age and relative inexperience compared to Osimhen are considerable factors, especially when linking the same issues with Hojlund (22) and Zirkzee (23).
Interestingly, our colleagues have outlined a dynamic belief with many existing players to accommodate a youthful summer addition like Delap or Ekitike.
“You see, when it comes to Ruben Amorim and Manchester United, far too many want to play football manager,” sources told Shaun Connolly.
“Realistically, in the real world, this is a football club which cut £40,000 in payments to ex-players. I read reports about X coming for €80 million from Spain or Y coming from £50 or £60 million from local, and all I can do is laugh. Where is the money coming from?
“Look at what we have currently, and I know the side is underperforming beyond understanding, but with everyone fit and able, there is an unbelievable quality here.
“Imagine a world where you have Kobbie, Bruno, Amad, and Mason, all attacking and supplying opportunities for a number 9 to have a go at goal. Then you can easily imagine a player like Ekitike, Liam Delap, or Rasmus thriving in this system. Even [Matheus] Cunha at Wolves is another of interest.
“The full-backs will play a crucial role, and we have already seen that with Dorgu. Dalot’s not had the best of times, but he has quality in him, and you look at Roger in Portugal, and he’s another who could do a tremendous job.
“It may seem a million miles away, but that’s not the belief on the ground. Ruben can see a pathway to success, and everybody buys into it.”
At 25, Cunha is another viable alternative and has boasted an array of line-leading attributes during a season in which he has notched 15 goals in all competitions.
We’re told that officials are keen to approach the player’s representatives and attempt to negotiate a suitable financial package in the summer. The Wolves striker is said to be eager to take the step and would relish the prospect of leading the line at Old Trafford.
An unavoidable factor in this summer saga lies at the feet of Marcus Rashford and his desire to challenge himself amongst the elite of Barcelona. A potential transfer fee retains a significant allure, and a notable salary has presented a regular conversation point.
Any deal to take the Wythenshaw man to Spain would require a reduction in his extensive wages, and our sources advise that Rashford would accept reduced terms to seal his move.
How do you feel about the list of potential striking options for Ruben Amorim and Manchester United, and where would you be placing your trust during the summer?
Let us know in the comments or across our social channels.
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