Ruben Amorim’s mid season arrival at Manchester United failed to change the fortunes of the misfiring side who eventually registered a record low Premier League finish of 15th.
Scoring goals was an issue that plagued the team throughout the campaign, leaving Amorim and INOES in no doubt where they need to prioritise the transfer budget this summer.
Adding firepower to United’s powderpuff attacking options is a must, with the capture of central striker that brings a guarantee of goals top of Amorim’s wish list.
A plethora of high profile names have been linked with the role of United’s main striker next season with Sporting CP striker Viktor Gykeres one of the players shortlisted.
However, as reported by The Telegraph, domestic rivals Arsenal appear to be the front runners for his signature and in pole position to sign the Swede this summer.
Lead figures at The Emirates also have their eye on long term target Benjamin Sesko and are “pushing” to agree a financial package for both strikers before deciding who they prefer.
The Telegraph reports that while this may be a “risky” strategy, there is a genuine lack of consensus at the Emirates as to which is the better option. Sporting director Andrea Berta will therefore present both deals to the board once the final figures are agreed, as the price difference could swing the decision one way or the other.
With Gykeres reportedly favouring a move to London over Manchester, United are left in a frustrating position having to wait for Arsenal to make their move, which could take weeks.
Furthermore, splashing out what will be a considerable transfer knowing the 27-year-old sees United as second choice also shouldn’t sit right with anyone at the club, who need players through the door that are desperate to wear the shirt.
One thing is clear, Gykeres looks certain to leave Lisbon in the coming months but if Arsenal plump for Sesko, he could find himself missing out on a move to back England.
Time is of the essence for Amorim who is desperate for INEOS to deliver his targets before pre-season gets under way, meaning it may be a case United have to switch their attention elsewhere in the market.
However, after missing out on Liam Delap and quality strikers at a premium across Europe, options are beginning to dwindle in the market which will be causing INEOS a headache.
For example, there is a window of opportunity between 1st and 15th July to sign Moise Kean from Fiorentina. Juventus are hoping to sign Jonathan David within the next 48 hours and Galatasaray and Al-Hilal are pushing Victor Osimhen to make a decision on their lucrative bids. If United wait too long for Arsenal to make their decision on Gyokeres, these other options could have evaporated.
United are due to return to training week commencing July 7 and it would be a major surprise to see a number nine through the doors before then, leaving Amorim much to ponder heading into the pre season Tour.
Featured image Gualter Fatia via Getty Images
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Conner Botterill Conner Botterill has been with The Peoples Person for two years. A keen match-going red with degrees in Sport and Journalism and Philosophy and Psychology, Conner still believes he has a chance of making United’s first team through his 5-a-side career.
