If there’s one area of Manchester United’s squad that absolutely must be addressed in the 2023 summer transfer window, it’s the forward line. Goals were too hard to come by, the No. 9 position became a revolving door, and wide players often struggled with consistency.

Some bright sparks did emerge, particularly from the academy, but United need a more reliable attacking unit if they’re to close the gap on Manchester City and Arsenal.

Let’s break down every forward in the squad and decide: keep, sell, or loan.

Forwards

Anthony Martial – Sell

Martial’s 2022/23 season was a frustrating one. When fit, he linked play well and fit Ten Hag’s system nicely, but those moments were far too fleeting. Injuries limited him severely, and United simply can’t rely on him as their main striker.

With a year left on his contract (plus an option), this summer is the last realistic chance to cash in.

Verdict: Sell

Wout Weghorst – Release (loan end)

Weghorst’s loan from Burnley provided work rate, pressing, and team-first attitude, but not goals. His finishing let him down, and United need a more clinical presence up front.

His loan expires on 30 June 2023, and there is no suggestion United will pursue a permanent move.

Verdict: Release (loan ending)

Marcus Rashford – Keep

Rashford delivered the best season of his career, scoring 30 goals in all competitions and becoming United’s primary attacking threat. He thrived under Ten Hag and is essential to any rebuild.

Verdict: Keep

Antony – Keep

A mixed first season but far from a failure. Antony showed flashes of quality, tactical understanding, and strong pressing. His output needs to improve, but Ten Hag trusts him and he’s only 23.

Verdict: Keep

Jadon Sancho – Keep (but big season ahead)

Sancho’s 2022/23 campaign was up-and-down, including his mid-season training period away from the squad to regain form and confidence. His talent is undeniable, but consistency remains the issue.

Given his age, fee, and potential, United won’t sell this summer, but 2023/24 feels pivotal.

Verdict: Keep

Alejandro Garnacho – Keep

One of the breakout stars. Direct, fearless, and already decisive in big moments, Garnacho is one of United’s most exciting prospects in years. He signed a new long-term contract in April 2023 and is firmly part of Ten Hag’s future plans.

Verdict: Keep

Facundo Pellistri – Loan

Bright in cameos, energetic, and offering width United sometimes lack, but still raw. Pellistri needs consistent senior football, ideally in a top European league, to accelerate his development.

Verdict: Loan

Amad Diallo – Keep

Amad had a superb 2022/23 loan at Sunderland, becoming one of the Championship’s standout players. Technical, intelligent, and increasingly decisive, he has earned a proper pre-season with Ten Hag.

He should stay and compete for minutes.

Verdict: Keep

Mason Greenwood – No involvement

As of June 2023, Greenwood remains suspended from team activities while the club continues its internal process. There is no confirmed decision on his footballing future at this date.

Given the sensitivity and seriousness of the situation, it wouldn’t be appropriate to include a keep/sell/loan verdict here, only that he is not part of United’s active squad planning at this time.

Let us know your thoughts on these choices, and importantly who should United be looking at as possible replacements ahead of a big season at Old Trafford under Ten Hag.