Breaking News: Manchester United Targets New Striking Options Amid Gyökeres Pursuit 🚨

Manchester United have dramatically expanded their striker search after facing roadblocks in their pursuit of Sporting CP’s Viktor Gyökeres, with three new names emerging as prime targets ahead of the summer transfer window. The Red Devils’ recruitment team, led by new sporting director Dan Ashworth, is casting a wider net to ensure Erik ten Hag gets the firepower needed for next season’s campaign.

At the top of United’s contingency list sits Napoli’s Victor Osimhen, the Nigerian powerhouse who remains one of Europe’s most coveted number nines. Despite his €120 million release clause, United are exploring creative deal structures that could include player exchanges to lower the cash outlay. Osimhen’s physicality and proven goalscoring record in Serie A make him the marquee option should negotiations with Gyökeres collapse completely.

RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Šeško represents a different profile – the 21-year-old Slovenian has skyrocketed in value after a breakout Bundesliga season. Standing at 6’4″ with surprising technical ability, Šeško fits United’s growing preference for young, moldable talents who can develop into world-class players under Ten Hag’s guidance. His €65 million release clause makes him significantly more affordable than Osimhen.

The wildcard option is Manchester City’s Liam Delap, currently excelling on loan at Stoke City. The 22-year-old’s physical, direct style has drawn comparisons to a young Wayne Rooney, and United believe they could pry him away from their rivals for around £25 million. Delap would represent a long-term project rather than an immediate starter.

This strategic pivot comes after complications arose in the Gyökeres deal. The Swedish striker’s €85 million release clause and intense competition from Chelsea and Arsenal have forced United to consider alternatives. While not abandoning the pursuit entirely, club officials now view Gyökeres as one of several viable options rather than the sole focus.

The financial implications are significant. United’s summer budget must also address needs at center-back and midfield, meaning any striker signing will impact other business. Osimhen would consume nearly the entire transfer kitty, while Šeško or Delap would leave room for additional reinforcements elsewhere.

Scouts have been dispatched across Europe to compile final reports on all three targets. Osimhen was personally watched during Napoli’s Champions League fixtures, Šeško during Leipzig’s Bundesliga run-in, and Delap in multiple Championship appearances. The data analytics team is comparing metrics on pressing intensity, aerial dominance, and chance conversion.

Ten Hag reportedly favors Osimhen’s ready-made quality but recognizes the financial constraints. The Dutchman has emphasized the need for a striker who can immediately improve United’s league-worst conversion rate while fitting his high-pressing system. All three candidates meet the basic physical and technical requirements but offer different developmental timelines.

Behind the scenes, United are preparing multiple negotiation scenarios. For Osimhen, they’re willing to include players like Donny van de Beek or Anthony Martial in part-exchange deals. Šeško’s representatives have been sounded out about personal terms, while Delap’s camp has received tentative inquiries about his openness to a controversial cross-city move.

The decision carries extra weight given United’s recent striker flops. From Radamel Falcao to Wout Weghorst, the club’s inability to solve their number nine problem has cost them dearly in the post-Ferguson era. This summer represents their best chance yet to finally land a consistent goalscorer.

Complicating matters is the uncertainty surrounding Ten Hag’s future. While the manager appears safe for now, any late-season collapse could prompt a rethink of transfer strategy. New minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe wants to implement a more data-driven approach regardless of who’s in the dugout.

United fans are divided on social media. Many crave the star power of Osimhen, while others argue Šeško’s potential makes him the smarter investment. Delap generates the most skepticism due to his unproven top-flight credentials, though some appreciate the homegrown angle.

As the season enters its final weeks, United’s hierarchy will finalize their shortlist. The coming Champions League and Europa League fixtures could prove decisive, with standout performances potentially swinging the decision one way or another.

One thing is certain – Old Trafford will welcome a new striker this summer. Whether it’s Gyökeres, Osimhen, Šeško, Delap, or a dark horse candidate remains the biggest unanswered question in what promises to be a transformative window for the Red Devils.

The club’s ability to land the right center forward could define their next five years. Get it right, and United may finally have the focal point they’ve lacked since Robin van Persie. Get it wrong, and the rebuild risks stalling before it truly begins. The stakes couldn’t be higher.