Manchester United’s pressing need for a clinical striker becomes evident when assessing the performances of Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee this season. The Red Devils have struggled for consistent goal-scoring output, with both forwards failing to deliver the kind of numbers expected from a top-tier Premier League club.
Hojlund, despite being one of the club’s marquee signings, has managed to find the net only eight times in the current campaign. His struggles in front of goal have been a significant concern, highlighted by an extended goalless drought in the Premier League that lasted a staggering 99 days. The Danish striker has shown glimpses of his potential but has lacked the ruthlessness required to consistently convert chances.
On the other hand, Zirkzee has scored just six goals, which further underscores United’s attacking inefficiencies. The Dutch forward, who was signed in the summer, appears to be more comfortable operating as an attacking midfielder rather than a traditional number nine. His natural inclination to drop deeper and link up play has limited his goal-scoring contributions, leaving United without a reliable focal point in attack.
Recognizing the urgency of the situation, newly appointed manager Ruben Amorim has made the acquisition of a prolific striker one of his top priorities for the upcoming transfer window. He is well aware that without a dependable goal-scorer, Manchester United’s chances of competing at the highest level will remain slim. His initial preference was to reunite with Viktor Gyökeres, a player he previously coached and who has been in outstanding form. However, the Swedish forward has set his sights on playing Champions League football next season, something that Manchester United may not be able to offer given their current struggles in the league.
With Gyökeres unlikely to make the switch to Old Trafford, Amorim has turned his attention to Napoli’s Victor Osimhen. The Nigerian forward, currently on loan at Galatasaray, has been in sensational form, taking the Turkish league by storm with his goal-scoring exploits. His ability to consistently find the back of the net, coupled with his physical presence and movement, makes him an ideal candidate to lead United’s attack.
Bringing in a striker of Osimhen’s caliber could be the solution to United’s ongoing offensive struggles. However, securing his signature will not be an easy task, as his impressive performances have likely attracted interest from multiple European clubs. Nevertheless, if Manchester United are to regain their former glory, signing a ruthless finisher will be imperative, and Amorim appears determined to address this glaring issue as soon as the transfer window opens.
