Manchester United are being urged to revisit a previously criticised transfer strategy by signing a veteran striker this summer. The suggestion comes as the club faces uncertainty in its forward line ahead of the new season.
Sesko sidelined, Zirkzee uncertain
Benjamin Sesko has yet to feature in pre-season after picking up a shin injury against Liverpool last season. The Slovenian striker has been training individually at Carrington while his teammates travelled to Norway. There is hope he will be fit for Friday's friendly against Atletico Madrid in Stockholm.
In Sesko's absence, Joshua Zirkzee has led the attack, but his future at Old Trafford is unclear. Interest from Italy is building, and even if he stays, a better back-up for Sesko is deemed necessary. Zirkzee has struggled as a centre-forward in the Premier League, and his role as a No.10 is already covered by Bruno Fernandes, Mason Mount, Matheus Cunha and Shea Lacey.
Short-term fix considered
United are committed to Sesko as first-choice striker, ruling out another young forward. Chido Obi has been mentioned as a back-up but is likely third-choice and needs experience before being relied upon from the bench.
The remaining option is to sign a short-term veteran, similar to past moves for Edinson Cavani, Radamel Falcao and Odion Ighalo. Those signings were mocked, with some justification. Ighalo was not the same player who starred at Watford, Falcao struggled in the Premier League, and Cavani's contract extension proved ill-advised.
Robert Lewandowski could have been an option but has joined MLS side Chicago Fire. Ollie Watkins has been linked, though at 30 he may not welcome a back-up role and could be expensive.
Despite past failures, an experienced striker could benefit both Sesko and Obi, providing mentorship while filling in when needed. United have experience in other areas of the pitch and now need to add it to the forward line.
