Three strikers Manchester United can target if Joshua Zirkzee leaves
(Courtesy :Â Getty)
The Dutch striker has been strongly linked with an exit from Old Trafford.
With the new Premier League season just weeks away, Manchester United are preparing to strengthen their squad to challenge for the league and continental titles. Under Michael Carrick, the Red Devils finished third in the league last season, securing European football for the 2026-27 season.
However, their transfer activity has been largely quiet so far. Their only incomings have been Aston Villa midfielder Youri Tielemans and Chelsea youngster Andrey Santos, while backup goalkeeper Karl Darlow came in on a free transfer.
Regarding outgoing players, Joshua Zirkzee has been linked with a move away from the club for some time, and the Netherlands striker seems destined to leave the Red Devils in this transfer window.
Journalist Matteo Moretto revealed that the former Bologna forward, who joined United two years ago, is open to joining Juventus, provided the Serie A side can strike a deal with the Red Devils.
If Zirkzee does indeed depart, Carrick will be left short of options up front, with Benjamin Sesko being the only established out-and-out striker.
The Red Devils will surely dip into the transfer market to add at least one striker to the squad to provide competition and cover for Sesko, should the Slovenian striker suffer an injury. Let’s look at three strikers the Premier League giants can target if Zirkzee leaves.
Also Read: Manchester United transfers: All ins & outs in summer window 2026
Ollie Watkins (Aston Villa)
The Aston Villa striker has been strongly linked with a move to United in recent weeks. The England international scored 21 goals across all competitions for the Villans last season, establishing himself as one of the best English strikers in the Premier League.
With Aston Villa exploring a move for Chelsea’s Nicolas Jackson, Watkins will be available for around £40m, which seems about right for a Premier League-proven striker. There is some risk attached to this move, of course, with Watkins turning 31 in December. However, he will be happy to play second fiddle to Sesko and will be lethal coming off the bench.
Ferran Torres (Barcelona)
Speculation is rife in Spanish media that Barcelona are ready to offload Ferran Torres, having already signed Anthony Gordon, who is capable of playing as a false nine. The Catalan side need money to sign Julian Alvarez, and Torres is one of those deemed a sellable asset, despite the Spain international scoring 21 goals across all competitions last season.
TEAMtalk claimed that Barcelona offered Torres’ services to United, with £39-43m enough to secure the deal, according to Estadio Deportivo. This would represent a good piece of business for United, who will get a young striker who can play up front and on the wings. Given his Manchester City background, however, Torres will have to work hard to win over the Red Devils fans.
Read More: Top five clubs that can sign Ferran Torres from FC Barcelona
Dusan Vlahovic (free agent)
After running down his Juventus contract, Dusan Vlahovic is available on a free transfer. Despite being one of the most in-demand players a few years ago, the Serbian is yet to be linked with any major clubs, which allows the Red Devils to snap him up on a Bosman deal.
Vlahovic has fallen down the pecking order at the Bianconeri, but still scored 10 goals across all competitions last season. While he would definitely not dislodge Sesko from the starting lineup, he will be an excellent option off the bench if he can rediscover his old form.
Can Joshua Zirkzee leave Manchester United this summer?
Yes, Zirkzee has been strongly linked with Juventus, with reports suggesting he is open to joining the Serie A side if they can strike a deal.
What has been Manchester United’s transfer activity so far?
United have signed Youri Tielemans (Aston Villa), Andrey Santos (Chelsea), and Karl Darlow (free transfer).
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Sushruta has spent over two years covering football, with a particular focus on Indian and international competitions. Alongside football, he has reported on a variety of sports, bringing curiosity and perspective to every story. When he’s not following the action, he can usually be found binge-watching movies or getting lost in a good book.