With a worrying tally of 38 Premier League goals to their name, it is no secret that Manchester United lack firepower up front as officials work towards strengthening attacking options in the summer transfer window.
Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee, signed from Italy’s Serie A in consecutive summers, have both struggled to score with the regularity that the United faithful would demand.
Despite what some would have you think, it is not a lack of talent. Instead, the pair have become the focal point of a failing attacking line, with few prepared to accept excuses or reasoning.
Ultimately, Ruben Amorim will be looking to add a proven goalscorer to his ranks this summer if United are to kick on under the Portuguese tactician and enjoy a more profitable campaign in 2025-26.
A lack of goals is proving undeniably costly for Manchester United
Throughout a traumatic campaign that has returned unthinkable Premier League woe, final-third complacency has supplied endless problems.
Now, with Zirkzee ruled out for the remainder of the season, Hojlund is the only senior option to lead the line for the 20-time English champions, and his lack of output has returned considerable scrutiny.
The Danish international has struggled for form this term and looks like a man devoid of confidence. Having bagged just eight goals this season, the former Atalanta attacker has often found it hard to get involved in overall play, with a loan return to Italy an increasing possibility.
Zirkzee, meanwhile, is a self-proclaimed 9.5 and doesn’t consider himself an out-and-out centre-forward. Amorim seems to share this view, starting the Dutchman as one of his advanced midfield players in that ‘attacking 10’ role more often than not.
The silky ex-Bologna performer netted seven times in his debut campaign in England before picking up a season-ending injury against Newcastle on April 13. However, if somebody required evidence of neglect at the highest level in the North West, United’s only other option is 17-year-old Chido Obi.
The teenager arrived from Arsenal in September and, following a successful spell at the academy level, was integrated into the senior side in February. He was handed his league debut against Tottenham and made an impressive cameo in the FA Cup defeat to Fulham in March.
Despite such lofty expectations, it is always sensible not to put too much pressure on young players and unrealistic to expect the promising Dane to lead the line for the club so soon in his developing career.
An array of attacking options to consider for Manchester United this summer
The three-time European Champions have been linked with numerous household names, with Amorim’s former Sporting CP talisman Viktor Gyokeres among the early frontrunners mentioned.
However, talks of a potential reunion with the Swedish hotshot have significantly cooled, and attention quickly turned to the prolific Victor Osimhen.
His future is in the air, and it remains unclear if any move will materialise. At 26 years of age, Osimhen represents a ready-made goalscorer. However, transfer fees and wages may prove to be an obstacle.
Liam Delap offers a more financially viable alternative after a season of top-tier promise. The youngster has enjoyed a fine Premier League campaign and will be available for just £30 million this summer following Ipswich’s inevitable relegation.
Eintracht Frankfurt’s Hugo Ekitike has also been on United’s radar but, like Osimhen, may be priced out of a potential move.
Additionally, Lille forward Jonathan David has been a player of interest. As Shaun Connolly exclusively revealed in March, United have been monitoring the soon-to-be free agent for several months.
As of today, it appears Delap is primed to inherit the attacking throne at Old Trafford, with Jason Wilcox an admirer. If he is the next man to shoulder the goal burden at the Theatre of Dreams, his temperament will be immediately tested, and few will allow time for integration.
Whatever your take on the number nine position, this decision holds supreme importance in plans to restore this great club to the top. Ruben Amorim requires support, and the Manchester United faithful need goals.
Who do you want to spearhead a new-look attack in the North West?
Let us know your thoughts in the comments or across our social channels.
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