Manchester United are exploring the central striker market ahead of the January transfer window. According to Dean Jones, the club could revisit the idea of acquiring a new forward if they continue to struggle with their scoring issues.
However, United's hierarchy would rather avoid another significant investment in their attack. No final decision has yet been made.
United are hoping for progress from Sesko
The club's main hope rests on Benjamin Sesko. Manchester United made a serious play for the Slovenian striker, but he has been lacking in physical readiness, sharpness, and consistency so far.
Currently, Sesko is adapting to his new team, and he also departed the Slovenia national team during the ongoing international break.
The club is counting on Sesko to find his form and start scoring regularly. Such a scenario would alleviate the need for United to venture back into the striker market.
Kunja isn't a traditional centre-forward
Matheus Kunja continues to be used in a central attacking role, though his preferred position differs from that of a traditional striker.
The Brazilian is more adept at playing deeper or drifting to the flanks, contributing to the build-up of attacks. Hence, United may still need another player capable of consistently finishing off the chances created.
Zirkzee is getting more game time
Joshua Zirkzee is also being given more opportunities than initially expected, having been close to leaving on transfer deadline day.
The Dutchman remains an additional option in attack, but there are questions within the club regarding his effectiveness at finishing.
Rashford could return to the centre
Another option being considered at Manchester United is to deploy Marcus Rashford as a central striker.
The England international rose through the academy playing down the middle, but he has often been used on the left in recent years. However, he has yet to find his best form consistently when playing wide.
Therefore, a return to a more familiar position for Rashford could also be one of the solutions.
United don’t want to buy a player just for depth
According to sources, the club is indeed monitoring the market and is ready to consider a striker capable of making an immediate impact.
However, their requirements will be high.
Manchester United need more than just another player to increase their options. The potential new signing must have proven scoring ability at a high level and possess qualities that can change the game in front of goal.
As it stands, no specific names are being mentioned. The club will keep an eye on the leading goal-scorers across Europe, as well as experienced forwards who are not getting sufficient playing time at their current clubs.
Priority remains Sesko
Despite the potential search for a new striker, the ideal scenario for United would be to avoid the need for a January transfer.
The club is hopeful that Benjamin Sesko can fully recover his form, gain attacking sharpness, and start scoring regularly.
Following significant investment in the Slovenian forward, Manchester United continue to pin their hopes on him. The decision on a new central striker will depend on how the attacking situation evolves in the coming months.
