THE winter transfer window is open and the whole world and his dog knows that United are desperate for a new striker.
The question is; will they pounce now or wait until the summer?
There’s the added issue in the background regarding the Glazer family, and whether or not they will complete a sale of the club before the end of the first quarter.
So will United make a short-term move now, or wait for a primary target in the summer?
Red Devils fan Tom McDermott provides his top five transfer targets and explains if a deal is likely this window, or next.
Premier League odds and betting tips
Victor Osimhen
Osimhen would be my number one choice and a player who fits the profile of what Erik ten Hag might well be looking for.
Still relatively young, he would bring goals, strength, and mobility to this United team, through the centre of the pitch - certainly something that they’ve been missing.
The Nigerian is playing really well for Italian side Napoli and would command a fee in the region of £100m. A deal isn’t expected to be done until the summer though.
Joao Felix
The popular choice for a loan move this January window.
It would appear that the only thing stopping him moving to Manchester is his large salary (which United would be expected to cover in its entirety), and the loan fee that Atletico Madrid are demanding.
United have put an initial package together worth around £4milllion but the Spaniards want a lot more. This one may run deep into the month.
Memphis Depay
If the Felix deal doesn’t happen United could turn to Depay and sign him on a permanent or loan deal.
The Dutchman had a tough spell at United under Louis van Gaal but the player needs games and United need forward options quickly.
A late move somewhere this window is possible. One to keep an eye on.
Harry Kane
Is Kane’s time at Tottenham about to come to an end? It won’t in the January window, but with his contract due to expire in 2024, this summer might be the best time for Daniel Levy to cash-in.
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Man City were quoted £150m 18 months ago, but United could entertain a deal at half that amount in a few months time given his contractual situation.
Could he have the same impact at Old Trafford as Robin van Persie?
Jonathan David
Wildcard. It’s not “if” but “when” the Canadian leaves Lille with manager Paulo Fonseca admitting that "it will be difficult" to keep him at the Ligue 1 side.
David can play in different roles across the frontline including number nine, something that would appeal to Ten Hag.
If United are priced out of a move for some of their other options, or the sale of the club hasn’t gone to plan, David might be the best and most affordable option in the summer.
Follow Tom on Twitter @MrTomMcDermott
