Manchester United are reportedly putting plans in place on signing a big-name striker within the next year but could face severe competition from a number of European giants.
The Red Devils’ attack is in dire need of regeneration sooner rather than later. Cristiano Ronaldo has been attempting to leave Old Trafford since the summer and sees his contract with the Red Devils expire in the summer.
Meanwhile, Anthony Martial has really struggled for fitness and looks unlikely to be a long-term option for Erik ten Hag. As a result, United’s recruitment team are putting plans together to sign a big-name forward in the next summer window.
According to the Manchester Evening News, the club’s scouting team are hard at work putting together long and shortlists of targets that could potentially be suitable.
One of those options is reportedly Napoli sensation Victor Osimhen. The Nigerian has enjoyed an electric campaign for the Serie A leaders this season with nine goals in 13 appearances in all competitions.
His performances have certainly garnered plenty of attention from around Europe, although it might take a big sum for any interested parties to secure his services; Napoli will no doubt demand to receive more than the £67.5m they paid Lille back in 2020.
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There are also further problems facing United as they aim to add to their attacking line-up and that is the fact that a number of Europe’s biggest clubs could be in the market for a big-name forward, too.
Bayern Munich are among those with the German giants having not yet signed a replacement for Robert Lewandowski - the Pole departing the Allianz Arena in the summer in a switch to Barcelona.
Elsewhere, Chelsea could also attempt to recruit a forward with their signing of Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang a short-term option.
Finally, Real Madrid could also dip into the market despite current forward Karim Benzema still being on top form. The Frenchman claimed the Ballon d’Or this year for his brilliant performances but, at the age of 34, it is logical that the Spanish giants will aim to sign his successor sooner rather than later.
It remains to be seen who United will sign but a few intriguing names have already surfaced. Recent reports have suggested that they hold an interest in former Stoke City man Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting.
The 33-year-old is out of contract at the end of the season and could arrive at Old Trafford on a free transfer should he fail to agree fresh terms with current employers Bayern Munich. United were also linked with his former Stoke colleague Marko Arnautovic in the summer but back-tracked on a swoop for the now Bologna forward.
