Manchester United has drawn up a four-man striker shortlist as the club seeks to bolster its attacking capabilities heading toward the summer transfer window. After enduring a rocky season marked by disappointing performances, the Red Devils are eager to reinforce their forward line. Currently sitting 13th in the Premier League as of March 18, 2025, the need for fresh talent has become increasingly evident for Manchester United.
Under the new management of Ruben Amorim, who replaced Erik ten Hag earlier this season, United's offensive struggles have led to increasing scrutiny of their current squad. Key forwards Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee have combined for just 14 goals this season, reflecting the team's overall challenges. On the back of their recent poor goal-scoring run, where they only managed 37 goals in 29 league matches, Manchester United is actively pursuing new attacking options.
The shortlist reportedly includes four potential signings: Victor Osimhen, Viktor Gyokeres, Hugo Ekitike, and Benjamin Sesko. This diverse group of talents reflects the club's strategy to rejuvenate its attacking front. Osimhen, currently on loan at Turkish giants Galatasaray from Napoli, has been prolific this season, scoring 26 goals during his spell. Given his current form, he is certainly one of the more exciting prospects available this summer.
Osimhen's loan at Galatasaray is not without its complications, as other elite clubs, including Paris Saint-Germain, are also rumored to be eyeing the Nigerian international. According to journalist Florian Plettenburg, who provided insights on the situation, Osimhen is interested in joining Manchester United, making him a strong candidate.
Another player on the radar is Viktor Gyokeres of Sporting Lisbon. Gyokeres has been nothing short of sensational for his Portuguese side, netting 40 goals across all competitions this season. His outstanding performance caught the eye of Amorim, who managed Gyokeres during his tenure at Sporting. The synergy between the player and his potential manager may prove advantageous for United, should they pursue Gyokeres seriously.
The shortlist also includes Hugo Ekitike from Eintracht Frankfurt, who has demonstrated consistent form throughout the season with 19 goals. Ekitike's contributions come at a time when United requires goal scorers who can take pressure off the likes of Bruno Fernandes, the club's current top scorer with 8 Premier League goals.
Benjamin Sesko of RB Leipzig rounds out the four-man shortlist. The young striker has been making waves, scoring 17 goals and providing six assists this term. Known for his technical ability and pace, Sesko has also attracted attention from clubs such as Arsenal, which could complicate negotiations.
Manchester United's woes are compounded by financial constraints brought on by the club's desire to build a new £2 billion stadium. The club faces challenges with Financial Fair Play (FFP) regulations, which could limit their spending power during the upcoming transfer window. Nevertheless, the need for reinforcements remains at the forefront of the club's planning as they prepare for what is expected to be another challenging season.
There have been signs of improvement recently, as United remains unbeaten in seven games. The team secured its most recent victory—a 3-0 trouncing of relegation-threatened Leicester City on March 16, where Hojlund ended his 22-game goal drought by finally finding the net.
This victory brings some much-needed optimism for the Manchester United supporters, but it also highlights the precarious nature of their season. Relying on the captain, Bruno Fernandes, whose scoring contributions remain limited, emphasizes the urgency for fresh attacking players. With the summer transfer market approaching, the clock is ticking for United to finalize acquisitions.
Looking forward, the road to recovery for Manchester United will depend significantly on the club's ability to execute shrewd signings. The anticipated recruitment of one or more from the identified quartet could be the key to revitalizing their faltering offense. With stakes high, United's fan base and management alike will be eagerly watching how these transfer negotiations play out as the club looks to regain its competitive edge.
Manchester United’s next fixture will be against Nottingham Forest on April 1, 2025. The result of this match might just shape the immediate future of the squad, including the urgency of their summer transfer pursuits.
