Ole Gunnar Solskjaer reported to be open-minded over striker deal before deadline

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Manchester United’s transfer incoming business looks largely done for the summer.

And with two elite players signed, Jadon Sancho and Raphael Varane – just about before the season, we probably should not complain too much after last summer’s debacle.

There is plenty of discussion among the fanbase about a move for a new midfielder, yet at this late stage a deal seems unlikely.

Kieran Trippier at right-back remains an outside possibility, while one wildcard late addition could be in attack.

The Telegraph report Ole Gunnar Solskjaer ‘would still take a striker if one comes available at the right price, regardless of scoring five against Leeds’.

Sensible to be open-minded

The widely held expectation is that United will sign a striker next summer, once Edinson Cavani expires.

As we have seen already, Cavani won’t be playing every game, Anthony Martial is still an enigma, and Mason Greenwood might step up this season, but we don’t quite know if he is there yet despite a promising opener.

The ingredients are there for a strong attack, United just don’t know if they will all deliver this season.

So it is sensible for Ole Gunnar Solskjaer to be open-minded over a potential striker deal if a player who is good enough comes along at a price acceptable to United.

Erling Haaland will be a top target in 2022. Sport1 reported this week his release clause could increase to £76 million, dependent on Dortmund’s performance. That would still be a bargain, but there will be competition.

Aside from Haaland, United’s options may include the likes of Robert Lewandowski, Harry Kane, Cristiano Ronaldo, and whisper it, an enquiry for Kylian Mbappe.

None of these players look like being available this summer, and given the quality of them, United don’t want to remove themselves from the running to sign any by signing another player this summer.

Since selling Romelu Lukaku, United have made short-term solutions at the striker position, with Odion Ighalo and Edinson Cavani. Haaland, the top target, would be a long term solution.

While United should always be on the lookout for a top quality player who might become available, and this is a report to bear in mind, we wouldn’t expect the club to actually go ahead and bring in a striker before the deadline.

Who could fit the bill?

If a forward was to come in, it would likely be a young under-23 striker who could cost under £20 million, if United find a hidden gem they believe in.

The MEN reported at the start of the summer United were monitoring Slavia Prague youngster Abdallah Sima, who scored 19 goals in 35 matches last season.

Sima remains at Prague, who have already been eliminated from the Champions League qualifiers. He provided an assist in the 2-1 aggregate loss.

While Sima also plays as a winger, The MEN report his long term position is expected to be up front.

United have multiple options in forward areas already, but if a deal is to be done for a striker before the transfer deadline, this is the type of move the club will probably be looking at.

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