Five strikers Manchester United could sign before transfer deadline, including former Ten Hag favourite

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Surprise surprise, Anthony Martial has been ruled out until April after undergoing surgery on his injured groin.

It’s no great loss, Manchester United fans would be happy to see his contract terminated now.

What this latest Anthony Martial ‘blow’ may do, is actually create a more urgent need for Manchester United to sign a striker to take the pressure off Rasmus Hojlund and share the load.

It will be a short-term move, with funds limited. Manchester United’s options are expected to be loan deals only.

There are some interesting names potentially on the table too. Here is a look at five potential late January signings…

Eric Choupo-Moting

• Age: 34
• Club: Bayern Munich
• Record this season: 20 games, 3 goals

Why a move could be possible: Former Stoke City striker Eric Choupo-Moting has enjoyed a late career surge at prestige clubs Paris Saint-Germain and Bayern Munich. But he has fallen down the pecking order at Bayern since Harry Kane‘s arrival.

While he has played 20 games this season, only four of those matches have been starts under Thomas Tuchel. A change of scene could give the Cameroon striker a temporary chance to prove his quality in the Premier League once more.

Karim Benzema

• Age: 36
• Club: Al-Ittihad
• Record this season: 19 games, 11 goals

Why a move could be possible: This would just be classic Manchester United, wouldn’t it, signing a striker a long time past his prime years.

Benzema is reportedly unsettled in the Saudi Pro League, hankering after a return to Europe. Marca claim United have held initial talks with his representatives. A move would cost a lot in wages, to the point where the deal may not be worth it – but he is the best striker option of the bunch.

Callum Wilson

• Age: 31
• Club: Newcastle
• Record this season: 20 games, 8 goals

Why a move could be possible: Newcastle are dealing with Financial Fair Play restraints and The Mail report Wilson could be available for transfer, amid an enquiry from Atletico Madrid.

This one could be unlikely if Newcastle are deterred by loaning to a competitor, however, if Manchester United are willing to offer a small fee, it could provide a short-term solution for both teams, while giving Erik ten Hag a Premier League proven option.

Sebastien Haller

• Age: 29
• Club: Borussia Dortmund
• Record this season: 13 games, 0 goals

Why a move could be possible: This one is just so obvious, isn’t it? Sebastien Haller has battled back from health difficulties since his move to Dortmund but has struggled this season, and has only managed four starts.

With relations strong enough between the clubs to facilitate a loan of Jadon Sancho the other way, it could be tempting for Erik ten Hag to reunite with a striker he managed at Utrecht and Ajax, scoring 87 goals under him. Haller also has Premier League experience with West Ham.

Odion Ighalo

• Age: 34
• Club: Al-Wehda
• Record this season: 17 goals, 9 games

Why a move could be possible: The last-ditch back-up plan, if Manchester United are having no luck one hour before the transfer deadline, another SOS call to Odion Ighalo might be required.

The Nigerian would jump at the chance, he’s done it once before. And while we don’t expect this to happen, nobody did in 2020 either. Let’s see just how desperate Manchester United get.