Manchester United head into the summer with one glaring priority: a reliable, proven centre-forward to spearhead Erik ten Hag’s side. Anthony Martial’s inconsistency, Cristiano Ronaldo’s departure, and Marcus Rashford’s preference for the left flank have left United short of a natural striker. The brief is clear, find someone who can lead the line, finish chances, and fit Ten Hag’s pressing and possession principles.

Below are five realistic striker targets who could fill that role, looking at their skillsets, why they’d suit United, and how feasible a deal might be.

1) Harry Kane — Tottenham Hotspur

Profile & skillset:
England’s captain is as complete a centre-forward as they come. Kane combines clinical finishing with intelligent movement and outstanding link-up play. He’s capable of dropping deep to dictate tempo or timing runs perfectly to arrive in scoring positions. His passing range and composure make him almost a hybrid between a No.9 and a No.10.

Why United would want him:
Kane would immediately guarantee goals and creativity. His ability to knit play between midfield and attack suits Ten Hag’s preference for fluid, positionally aware football. His leadership and experience would also raise standards within the dressing room.

Transfer likelihood:
Low to medium. Kane has always been United’s dream signing, but Daniel Levy’s reluctance to sell to a Premier League rival and the enormous transfer fee make this deal complex. Still, he’s exactly the type of player Ten Hag would want if the finances allowed.

2) Victor Osimhen — Napoli

Profile & skillset:
Osimhen is one of Europe’s most dynamic forwards, a blend of pace, power, and relentless work rate. He’s excellent at attacking crosses, timing runs in behind, and bullying defenders with his physical presence. Beyond his goals, he presses aggressively and leads the line with real authority.

Why United would want him:
United have lacked a striker who can both stretch defences and dominate aerially. Osimhen would bring that explosive threat, giving them an outlet in transition and a reliable finisher in tight games. He’s also at an age where he could lead the attack for years.

Transfer likelihood:
Low. Napoli value him extremely highly, and interest from multiple top clubs means a bidding war would drive the price up. While he’d be a perfect tactical fit, he’d also represent a record-breaking investment.

3) Rasmus Højlund — Atalanta

Profile & skillset:
One of Europe’s breakout young strikers, Højlund combines height, strength, and pace with intelligent movement. He’s still developing, but his direct running, energy, and ability to attack space behind defenders make him a nightmare for backlines. He’s raw, but there’s huge upside.

Why United would want him:
Højlund offers a long-term project, a striker Ten Hag could shape. He has the physical and technical traits suited to the Premier League, and his mentality stands out: fearless, hard-working, and eager to improve.

Transfer likelihood:
Medium. Atalanta would be open to selling for the right price, and his wage demands would be far lower than the established names. United’s scouting department have closely tracked him, and he represents a realistic, developmental signing.

4) Jonathan David — Lille

Profile & skillset:
A quick, mobile, and intelligent striker who excels in movement and positioning. David is equally capable of running off the shoulder of the last defender or dropping into pockets to combine with midfielders. His finishing is instinctive, and his pressing intensity fits a modern attacking system.

Why United would want him:
He’s consistent, technically sharp, and already proven in Europe. David’s versatility, being able to operate as a central striker or second forward, gives Ten Hag flexibility. He’d also suit a front line built on pace and movement rather than static hold-up play.

Transfer likelihood:
Medium. With Lille open to business and David entering a phase where a move up feels natural, United could find him a cost-effective solution. He may not carry the superstar appeal of Kane or Osimhen, but he offers reliability and development potential.

5) Dušan Vlahović — Juventus

Profile & skillset:
A physically imposing striker with a lethal left foot and excellent hold-up play. Vlahović thrives when given service in the box but also has the strength to play with his back to goal. He’s clinical, confident, and still relatively young, giving him time to refine his game further.

Why United would want him:
He’d bring a classic No.9 profile, someone who can occupy centre-backs, hold possession high up the pitch, and finish chances. United’s wide players would benefit from having a focal point like Vlahović to aim for.

Transfer likelihood:
Low to medium. Juventus have faced financial uncertainty, which could make them open to offers, but the player’s inconsistent form and high valuation mean any move would carry risk. Still, he’s a realistic name on the list of potential targets.

Verdict

• Immediate impact, guaranteed goals: Harry Kane or Victor Osimhen — both world-class and transformative, but extremely expensive.
• Smart investment, long-term growth: Rasmus Højlund or Jonathan David — younger, more affordable, and with huge upside.
• Balanced gamble: Dušan Vlahović — an established striker who might be available if the timing aligns.

Final Thought

Manchester United’s striker search is a balancing act between short-term certainty and long-term planning. Kane or Osimhen would make United title contenders overnight, but both would demand record fees. Højlund and David represent the modern recruitment route, younger, hungrier, and ready to grow with the project.

If Ten Hag’s rebuild is to last, investing in a striker who can develop within his system might prove wiser than chasing a quick fix. Either way, finding the right number nine will define United’s next era.