Manchester United's Striker Search Intensifies as Transfer Deadline Looms
Manchester United are actively scouring the market for attacking reinforcements as the January transfer window enters its final week. Under the guidance of manager Michael Carrick, who has overseen impressive victories over Manchester City and Arsenal, the club is keen to bolster its squad to secure a top-four finish and Champions League qualification for the 2025/2026 season.
Vitor Roque Emerges as a Key Target Amid Premier League Interest
According to reports from Brazilian outlet Rádio Tupi, Manchester United are monitoring the situation of Palmeiras striker Vitor Roque. The 20-year-old Brazilian, once a highly-touted prospect at Barcelona, has attracted attention from several English clubs, with Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur also said to be in the race for his signature.
Roque's career trajectory has been a mix of promise and challenge. After making his mark in Brazil's top flight with Cruzeiro and Athletico Paranaense, scoring prolifically, he secured a move to Barcelona. However, his time in Spain was underwhelming, yielding just two goals in 16 appearances before a loan spell at Real Betis, where he netted seven times in 33 games.
Since returning to Brazil in a €25.5 million (£21.1 million) transfer to Palmeiras, Roque has rediscovered his scoring touch, notching an impressive 20 goals in 59 appearances. Despite this resurgence, Palmeiras have set a substantial asking price of £43 million, which could prove a stumbling block for any potential suitors. As of now, none of the Premier League clubs have made a formal approach for the young striker.
United Plot 'Ambush' Bid for French Prodigy Mohamed Kader Meïté
In a separate development, French publication FootMercato claims that Manchester United are preparing to 'ambush' a potential deal for Rennes starlet Mohamed Kader Meïté. The 18-year-old forward has caught the eye with three goals in 18 appearances across all competitions this season, drawing interest from Saudi Arabian giants Al-Hilal, who are reportedly readying a bid worth €40 million (£34.7 million).
United's interest in Meïté appears contingent on the departure of a current striker from Old Trafford. Joshua Zirkzee is viewed as the most likely candidate to exit, with Serie A side AS Roma expressing keen interest in securing his services. However, it remains uncertain whether United would match Al-Hilal's proposed fee or if Zirkzee will indeed leave the club this month, casting doubt on the feasibility of this move.
Carrick's Squad Building and Transfer Strategy
Michael Carrick's tenure at Manchester United has begun promisingly, with the team climbing back into the top four of the Premier League. The club conducted significant business in the summer, acquiring forwards such as Benjamin Sesko, Matheus Cunha, and Bryan Mbeumo to strengthen the attack. Yet, with the Champions League spots fiercely contested, additional firepower could be crucial in the final stretch of the season.
The pursuit of Vitor Roque and Mohamed Kader Meïté underscores United's focus on young, dynamic attacking talent. Roque offers experience in European football and a proven goal-scoring record in Brazil, while Meïté represents a high-potential prospect with room for development. Both players align with a strategy of investing in future stars, though financial considerations and competition from other clubs pose significant challenges.
As the transfer window draws to a close, Manchester United's actions in the coming days will be closely watched. Securing a new striker could provide the impetus needed to cement their Champions League ambitions, but with time running out, the club must navigate complex negotiations and rival interest to achieve their goals.
