After Manchester United decided not to offer a new deal to Zlatan Ibrahimovic, it is clear that the Red Devils are going to need a new star who will lead their attack in the next season.
Wayne Rooney, one of the best players in the club’s history, is on the verge to leave, too. Even if he stays, he is not getting any younger, and he’s not playing at the high level like he used to.
With only two forwards left in the squad (youngster Marcus Rashford and Anthony Martial), United will have to buy a new striker. Let’s see who they could bring to Old Trafford.
Alvaro Morata (Real Madrid)
Alvaro Morata is very close moving to Man United, and Jose Mourinho stated few times that he would like to coach the Spanish striker again. For the time being, the biggest problem is Morata’s current club – Real Madrid, because they don’t want to allow him to leave.
But Morata started only 14 games in La Liga last season, and 12 times he came off the bench, so he demands more playing time. He managed to net 15 goals in those 26 appearances, some of which were very important as Real Madrid brought the domestic title back to Santiago Bernabeu.
Morata is just 24-year-old, and he can still improve; he could be the Red Devils’ leading star for years to come. He is a tough player who doesn’t hesitate to get into a duel with strong defenders.
Alvaro also possesses a solid technique and his off the ball movement looks good, and he will probably adapt well to the Premier League style. Morata improved his heading and aerial duels in last two seasons, while he is a natural fox in the box.
And working under the “Special One” will certainly enhance the tactical part of his game.
If Real Madrid decides to let him go, Manchester United could be the right place for Morata. He will be a first option in the attack, and with some bright talents around (Rashford, Pogba, Mkhitaryan) he could become a new Premier League star.
Andrea Belotti (Torino)
The 23-year-old striker had a tremendous last season playing for Torino in Serie A where he scored 26 goals in 35 games. Some will say the Italian championship is no longer a top one, but Belotti proved many times that he is a clinical finisher.
Andrea Belotti is quick, strong, with great pace and off the ball movement. He is always a danger in the opponent’s box as he can score with both legs and with the head as well.
But he is not just useful when his team is attacking, Belotti can run a lot and always look to come back and help the defense if needed.
After a great year in Torino, he is now looking for a new challenge, perhaps at the bigger stage. Joining the Red Devils could be the right move.
Mourinho already said that he would like to see Belotti in a red shirt and Andrea looks like a type of player he likes.
But the race for Belotti is heating up as Chelsea and PSG also declared an interest in the player, so we will see who is going to land him this summer.
Cristiano Ronaldo (Real Madrid)
Well, Cristiano Ronaldo at Old Trafford again – this is the scenario that every United fan would love to see.
Arguably the best player in the world won everything with Real Madrid, but after tax evasion allegations, it seems that he is no longer interested to live and play football in Spain.
There is a lot of speculation about his future, and with Manchester United’s spending power it’s not impossible to see Cristiano leading the Red Devils again.
If he chooses to come back, United will certainly be a top contender to win the Premier League title next year.
If the Red Devils succeed to bring Morata or Belotti, they will surely get a striker who can lead the team for years to come. They will need to spend near €100 million, but if that is the price of the bright future, they will not hesitate to spend.
One thing is sure – Manchester United needs a world class striker if they want to be a top team once again.
Written by Oliver Zivic
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