Manchester United’s pressing need for a clinical goalscorer becomes evident when analyzing the performances of their current striking options, Rasmus Højlund and Joshua Zirkzee, this season. The Danish forward has found the back of the net only eight times, while his Dutch counterpart has managed just six goals.
Højlund, who arrived at Old Trafford from Atalanta, has struggled to maintain consistent form, enduring a prolonged 99-day goal drought in the Premier League before finally scoring again. Zirkzee, on the other hand, is naturally more comfortable operating as an attacking midfielder rather than as an out-and-out striker, which has further compounded United’s issues in front of goal.
Recognizing the team’s struggles in converting chances into goals, newly appointed manager Rúben Amorim has made acquiring a prolific center-forward his top priority for the upcoming transfer window. Initially, Amorim had set his sights on a reunion with Viktor Gyökeres, the Swedish striker who has been in exceptional form for Sporting CP. However, the forward has expressed a strong desire to play in the UEFA Champions League next season—an opportunity Manchester United may not be able to provide, given their current standing in the Premier League. This has forced the club to explore alternative options in their search for a reliable goal scorer.
As a result, the Red Devils have turned their attention to Napoli’s Victor Osimhen, who is presently enjoying a successful loan spell at Galatasaray. The Nigerian international has been in scintillating form in the Turkish Süper Lig, delivering standout performances and showcasing his ability to be the kind of ruthless finisher United desperately need. His prolific goal-scoring exploits have propelled him to the top of Amorim’s wishlist as he looks to bolster the squad ahead of the new season.
With United’s attacking inefficiency proving costly in key moments, securing a proven goalscorer like Osimhen could be a transformative move for the club. However, the competition for his signature is expected to be fierce, as several other European clubs are likely to express interest in acquiring his services. Moreover, the financial aspect of the deal will play a significant role, with Napoli expected to demand a substantial fee for their prized asset.
Ultimately, Manchester United’s ability to land a top-tier striker will depend on various factors, including their final league position, their budget for the summer transfer window, and their ability to convince potential signings of the club’s long-term vision. Whether Osimhen, or another elite forward, will don the famous red jersey next season remains to be seen, but one thing is certain—Amorim is determined to address the team’s striking woes as a matter of priority.
