Sir Jim Ratcliffe and INEOS have finalized the acquisition of a minority stake in Manchester United, securing full control over the club’s sporting decisions following approval from the English FA.
With a vision to revive the club’s former glory, they are poised to make significant appointments while already strategizing for the upcoming summer transfer window. Their focus lies on building a robust scouting system to unearth top European talents and nurture them for the future.
Simultaneously, the club aims to streamline its squad by offloading players surplus to requirements and recruiting individuals capable of making immediate and long-term improvements. Among their priorities is the acquisition of a new number nine, despite the recent signing of Rasmus Hojlund last summer.
While Hojlund is considered a part of the club’s future plans, they are cautious about overburdening the Danish talent and seek additional striking options. However, mindful of financial constraints imposed by past expenditures and Financial Fair Play regulations, the club will operate within a limited budget.
Despite aspirations for marquee signings, Manchester United will adopt a prudent approach, prioritizing cost-effective solutions. Here are three affordable strikers they could target in the upcoming transfer window as part of their strategic squad-building endeavors.
Youssef En-Nesyri
En-Nesyri’s future has dominated discussions recently, with the 26-year-old striker drawing interest from several English clubs as his contract with Sevilla expires in the summer of 2025. Since joining Sevilla in 2020, he has become a vital part of their lineup, prompting talks of a contract extension. However, with negotiations yet to yield significant progress, there’s speculation of a potential departure at the end of the season.
West Ham United, Wolves, and Aston Villa are among the clubs eyeing his signature, but Manchester United could also enter the fray. The Red Devils were previously linked with En-Nesyri before the winter transfer window and may reignite their interest in the summer as they seek a new striker. With his blend of physical prowess and technical skill, the Moroccan international is viewed as an ideal complement to Hojlund, offering experience and goal-scoring prowess.
En-Nesyri’s current market value is estimated at around €18 million, making him an attractive prospect for potential suitors. Should Sevilla fail to secure his long-term commitment, Manchester United could pursue his services. With an impressive tally of 18 goals last season and 11 already this term, En-Nesyri’s consistent performances suggest he could make a significant impact for the Red Devils if they succeed in securing his signature.
Serhou Guirassy
Guirassy has emerged as a target for Manchester United, with the 27-year-old striker impressing in the Bundesliga for VfB Stuttgart. Since his arrival at the German club last summer, he has made 19 appearances, contributing an impressive 20 goals and two assists. His prolific form has garnered interest from clubs across Europe, including Arsenal, West Ham United, and Tottenham Hotspur.
Despite the competition for his signature, Guirassy reportedly favors a move to England, which could benefit Manchester United in their pursuit. However, they will face stiff competition from their rivals for the striker’s services.
With a €17 million release clause in his contract, it appears unlikely that Guirassy will remain at Stuttgart beyond the summer. His proven track record in the Bundesliga suggests he could be a valuable addition to United’s squad, although securing his signature will be challenging given the interest from multiple clubs.
Both Guirassy and En-Nesyri offer experience and goal-scoring prowess, which could benefit the young forwards at United. While signing an established player like Guirassy may be one approach, the club could also explore options with young talent and significant potential. A partnership between Guirassy and Hojlund could provide United with the attacking firepower needed to compete at the highest level and potentially restore the club to its former glory.
Joshua Zirkzee
Zirkzee, the 22-year-old talent who honed his skills at Bayern Munich, has been making waves since joining Bologna in 2022. His impressive performances this season, featuring in 28 matches and contributing to 16 goals, have attracted attention from clubs across Europe.
With 10 goals and six assists to his name, Zirkzee’s prowess in the final third has not gone unnoticed. Manchester United have been keeping a close eye on him and see him as a valuable addition to their squad. However, they face competition from Barcelona, Chelsea, and Arsenal for the Dutch youth international’s signature.
Although there is a €40 million release clause in Zirkzee’s contract with his former club Bayern Munich, Bologna is reportedly seeking around €50 million for his departure. Despite their financial constraints, Manchester United are prepared to meet this valuation in their pursuit of the talented forward.
To fund this investment, Manchester United may need to offload some high-earning players who are surplus to requirements. The potential departures of Anthony Martial, Antony, and Jadon Sancho could not only raise funds but also create space for new arrivals in the squad.