INEOS entered the summer transfer window with a clear mission: to secure quality attacking options for head coach Ruben Amorim.
A striker and two No. 10s were the priority, and so far, things seem to be on track.
Matheus Cunha, one of the playmakers, has joined from Wolverhampton Wanderers, and his deal is expected to be swiftly followed by a swoop for Bryan Mbeumo, the other No. 10.
Mbeumo has already given Manchester United his word on signing. Now, it’s up to the club and Brentford to finalize the transfer.
While United appear set to secure their two playmakers, uncertainty remains over their pursuit of a striker.
United’s striker search slows
At one stage, Liam Delap was seen as an ideal fit, but he opted to move to Stamford Bridge instead.
INEOS have yet to react to the setback, and according to transfer insider Ben Jacobs, fans may need to remain patient.
Speaking to The United Stand, Jacobs suggested that United have temporarily cooled their striker search, prioritizing outgoings before making their move.
Regarding the striker search, the journalist stated: “Manchester United will focus on outgoings before going for a number nine.”
Gyokeres remains the striker to watch
Despite the slowdown, Viktor Gyokeres remains a key target.
Jacobs claims United are in no rush to finalize a deal for the Sporting CP forward, with his signing likely to be completed in July, just before pre-season begins.
On Gyokeres, he noted: “Expect the Viktor Gyokeres saga to carry on into July – Manchester United are in no rush.”
This suggests United may be looking to boost their transfer budget after securing big-money moves for Mbeumo and Cunha before returning to the market.
Another factor influencing their approach could be that Gyokeres has given United his word, meaning the club is not overly concerned about missing out on him.
Hojlund’s future needs sorting first
Before securing a new striker, United must also resolve Rasmus Hojlund’s future.
Inter Milan have expressed strong interest, hoping he will join them to complement Lautaro Martínez and Marcus Thuram.
How United handle these next steps could shape their attacking options for the upcoming season.
Feature image Gualter Fatia via Getty Images
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Daniel Onguko
Since Dan was introduced to Manchester United in 2008, he has lived and breathed the club. What started as being a fan evolved into writing about United, allowing him to feel part of their journey. Hopefully, his work might even help rekindle your love for the kings of Manchester.
