Manchester United find themselves in a challenging position after missing out on Champions League football, forcing them to rethink their transfer strategy. The club is now reportedly exploring alternative options, including a £30 million move for a striker to fill the void left by their European absence. This comes after a disappointing season that saw them miss out on silverware and a top-four finish.
The Red Devils were dealt a significant blow when Tottenham’s Brenan Johnson scored the decisive goal in the Europa League final, denying United both a trophy and a spot in next season’s Champions League. This setback has left manager Ruben Amorim and the club’s decision-makers with a daunting task of rebuilding the squad under financial constraints. According to The Sun, the lack of Champions League football has forced United to shift their focus to a different market, targeting more affordable options.
While Matheus Cunha remains a priority, with United reportedly ready to trigger his £62.5 million release clause from Wolves, the club is also considering other strikers as part of their contingency plan. Among the names on their radar is Liam Delap, with a £30 million deal being discussed. However, Chelsea are also in the race for the young forward, and their potential Champions League qualification could give them the edge in negotiations.
United’s backup list includes several intriguing options, such as Moise Kean, Mateo Retegui, and Lorenzo Lucca. Retegui has been in impressive form this season, scoring 23 goals in 31 appearances, while Kean has revived his career in Serie A with Fioremanchester United’s scouting team has also identified Crystal Palace’s Jean-Philippe Mateta as a potential target. The 27-year-old has been in fine form, netting 14 Premier League goals this season, and is reportedly being considered as a viable option. Palace are said to be demanding £30 million for the striker, whose contract expires at the end of the next season. Mateta is reportedly weighing his options carefully, with an eye on representing France at the 2026 World Cup.
According to L’Equipe, Mateta’s decision will hinge on the opportunities presented to him in the coming weeks. While a return to France is not entirely off the table, the striker is open to exploring new challenges, including a potential move to Manchester United. The report also suggests that United are interested in Marcus Thuram, though a deal could be complicated due to strained relations between Thuram’s agent and United’s CEO, Omar Berrada.
As the summer transfer window approaches, Manchester United’s focus will be on securing the right reinforcements to bounce back from a disappointing season. With a mix of established stars and emerging talents on their radar, the Red Devils are determined to rebuild and return to their former glory.
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