As Rasmus Højlund edges closer to the exit, Manchester United have intensified their search for a striker to spearhead Ruben Amorim’s new-look squad. With time ticking down in the summer transfer window, the club is navigating financial constraints, tricky negotiations, and a shortlist of targets to bolster their frontline.
Amorim’s Attacking Priority: A New No.9
United’s pre-season began without two crucial additions Ruben Amorim had hoped for: a new striker and a goalkeeper. While the wait for a keeper continues, the club’s focus has shifted firmly to securing a striker that fits Amorim’s system and long-term vision.
Multiple forwards have emerged as potential options, with United submitting a final bid for Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo. The proposal, reportedly worth £65 million plus £5 million in add-ons, underscores their urgency and the player’s willingness to join.
Transfer Targets: Balancing Budget and Fit
Due to current financial limitations, United are unlikely to spend more than £40 million without raising funds through player sales. That has shaped their shortlist — which includes a mix of attainable and aspirational names.
Ollie Watkins
Initial contact has been made through intermediaries regarding the Aston Villa striker. While Watkins is open to a potential move, United are not in a financial position to pursue a deal at this time.
Benjamin Šeško
The RB Leipzig forward has been under United’s radar for months. However, internal concerns about his suitability for Amorim’s style have put a hold on further pursuit, at least for now.
Jean-Philippe Mateta
Seen as one of the more financially viable options, the Crystal Palace frontman could be available for around £30–35 million. Palace, however, are reluctant to let him leave, and are working to keep him at Selhurst Park.
Nicolas Jackson
The Chelsea striker is also on United’s radar, but his £60 million price tag is considered too steep. Despite some truth to recent links, the club is not prepared to meet that valuation.
The Mbeumo Bid: A Test of Resolve
United’s pursuit of Bryan Mbeumo has been the most serious so far. The club reached a significant milestone this week by tabling what is believed to be a final offer. The player is reportedly keen on the switch, but Brentford’s rising demands have complicated talks.
With Mbeumo expressing his interest in the move, United’s willingness to push the deal over the line could be a sign of renewed determination under INEOS leadership. Still, the club has made it clear it won’t be pressured into overpaying, a stance reinforced by Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s call for financial prudence last season.
Højlund Out, Who’s In?
Rasmus Højlund’s potential departure would leave a void in United’s forward line, further increasing the urgency for a new striker. Amorim does have short-term internal options, such as Joshua Zirkzee or Matheus Cunha, but both are viewed as temporary solutions rather than marquee signings.
Interestingly, Christopher Nkunku has re-entered the conversation. Talks with Chelsea may have resumed, though nothing concrete has been confirmed.
Final Stretch: United’s Striker Search Continues
With less than a month remaining in the transfer window, Manchester United are facing a critical stretch in their recruitment strategy. The club is determined to avoid panic buying but knows a quality striker is essential to Amorim’s tactical blueprint and long-term success.
Whether the answer lies in Mbeumo, Mateta, or a late-window surprise, United must now act with clarity and conviction to land their No.9.
