Manchester United’s striker search has been marred by disappointment, frustration, and uncertainty.
With no Champions League football, Ruben Amorim’s top targets have slipped through INEOS’s grasp with worrying ease.
United continue to cross names off their striker wishlist, sparking concern over whether they will land the marquee number nine that Amorim’s project desperately craves.
Nicolas Jackson, Ollie Watkins, and Benjamin Sesko have now emerged as the remaining viable options in the Red Devils’ striker hunt.
Aston Villa are adamant Watkins is not for sale; perhaps he, too, should be scratched off the list.
Sesko could leave RB Leipzig for 60 million-plus, but United must fend off strong interest from Newcastle to secure his signature.
The Jackson opportunity As for Jackson, his reported 50 million (42 million) price tag makes him a tempting transfer opportunity.
With Chelsea having signed Joao Pedro and Liam Delap, the Blues are thought to be open to cashing in.
While United remain unsure about making a move, they now find themselves competing with Newcastle and Aston Villa for the Senegalese forward.
They will hope the allure of playing at the Theatre of Dreams sways Jackson in their favour, but if they intend to act, they need to do so now.
European giants enter the frame Caught Offside suggests a Jackson switch to Old Trafford could now be under threat, as a serious European suitor enters the picture.
They report: “Barcelona have emerged as one of the most serious contenders, identifying Jackson as a potential backup for Robert Lewandowski. The club’s sporting director, Deco, is expected to initiate talks with Chelsea over a one-year loan with an option to buy.”
For most footballers, playing for Barca is the ultimate dream, but the question remains: is Jackson built differently?
According to the same report, the Blues’ striker appears firm in his desire to remain in England.
He has already turned down a move to AC Milan, feeling he has unfinished business in the Premier League.
Mocked at times last season for lacking cutting edge and finishing with just 13 goals, he is thought to be eager to prove his worth and silence doubters on English soil.
Even so, Barcelona are said to be very serious about landing him and may well push hard to sway him to a Camp Nou switch.
United’s crossroads The La Liga giants’ pursuit puts United in a tricky position; they may not need to show their true intent over Jackson.
Failing to act decisively could see yet another striker crossed off the wishlist, a familiar and frustrating theme in United’s search for a striker.
Featured image Stuart Franklin via Getty Images
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Daniel Onguko Since Dan was introduced to Manchester United in 2008, he has lived and breathed the club. What started as being a fan evolved into writing about United, allowing him to feel part of their journey. Hopefully, his work might even help rekindle your love for the kings of Manchester.
