Fabrizio Romano Reveals Manchester United’s Five Striker Targets to Replace Marcus Rashford

Manchester United are set to reshape their attacking options with a bold move in the transfer market. According to the reliable insights of Fabrizio Romano, the Red Devils are actively monitoring five potential striker targets as they aim to replace Marcus Rashford.

This strategic plan underscores United’s determination to strengthen their frontline and address key weaknesses ahead of the next transfer window.

Rashford has faced ongoing scrutiny regarding his form and role in Erik ten Hag’s system.

With United now under financial pressure and aiming to comply with Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR), the club could be open to parting ways with the English forward.

This has fueled speculation about a strategic sale in the winter window, with United eyeing top talent to bring in additional firepower and creativity.

Romano’s report lists five names as key candidates for the striker role, each offering a distinct set of qualities and tactical versatility.

The list of targets features a mix of proven European stars and promising talents, signaling Manchester United’s diverse approach to rebuilding their squad.

1. Victor Osimhen – Napoli’s Goal Machine

Victor Osimhen stands out as one of Europe’s most in-demand strikers. The Nigerian international has proven himself as a world-class goal scorer with his incredible pace, strength, and finishing ability. His standout performances for Napoli in recent seasons have solidified his status as one of the hottest properties in European football.

Osimhen’s price tag, however, remains steep. With reported valuations in the £100 million range, his transfer would undoubtedly be a significant financial investment. Despite this, his explosive pace and clinical goalscoring abilities make him an ideal fit for Manchester United’s attacking style. His addition could inject the kind of dynamism that would give United an edge in the Premier League and Europe.

While his price could be a barrier, Manchester United’s intent to rebuild their front line means Osimhen remains firmly on their radar.

2. Viktor Gyökeres – A Rising Talent with Strategic Appeal

Viktor Gyökeres has been making waves at Sporting Lisbon under Ruben Amorim, emerging as one of the most consistent performers in Liga Portugal. The Swedish striker currently leads the league’s scoring charts and boasts impressive versatility—qualities that make him a seamless tactical fit for Erik ten Hag’s system.

Gyökeres’ strong familiarity with Amorim’s pressing, possession-based system could make him an exciting choice for the Red Devils. His ability to adapt quickly to various attacking roles makes him a potential asset, and United would view his reported price as relatively reasonable given his recent performances and market demand.

This option provides Manchester United with a younger, cost-effective alternative to a marquee signing like Osimhen.

3. Dusan Vlahovic – A Physical Presence in Attack

Dusan Vlahovic continues to remain on top clubs’ wish lists across Europe. The Serbian striker combines strength, aerial prowess, and a lethal finishing ability that has kept Juventus competitive over the years. Despite Juventus’ recent struggles, Vlahovic has proven himself as a proven goalscorer with the ability to dominate both on the ground and in the air.

His physical presence and ability to create space through powerful movement could make him a perfect addition to Manchester United’s frontline. The Red Devils could benefit from his ability to lead the attack while offering tactical flexibility, depending on their formation or opponent.

Vlahovic’s availability and price will depend on Juventus’ willingness to part with him, but his addition would undoubtedly bolster United’s ambition to return to the top of English and European football.

4. Evan Ferguson – A Young Talent with Premier League Potential

Brighton’s rising star Evan Ferguson has impressed Premier League fans with his performances over the last year. The young striker has shown flashes of brilliance, combining composure in front of goal with a natural ability to link up play in high-pressure situations. While Ferguson’s form has dipped at times, his age and potential make him a highly attractive option for Manchester United’s rebuilding project.

Ferguson’s relatively modest price tag also makes him an appealing addition for a club managing financial pressures and strategic transfers. His youth offers the long-term vision that United would look for in an investment, ensuring they build their squad for both immediate impact and future success.

5. Kenan Yildiz – Juventus’ Versatile Rising Star

Kenan Yildiz represents the most long-term strategic option on United’s list. The 18-year-old attacker has been turning heads at Juventus with his versatility and creativity in the final third. While not yet a proven star at the highest level, Yildiz is a talent that could offer both flexibility and fresh energy for United’s front line.

His ability to operate in multiple roles across the attacking third—whether as a central striker or a winger—gives Erik ten Hag the tactical options he needs. While Yildiz would represent a project signing rather than an instant impact, his raw potential could make him an exciting addition for a club with the resources to invest in the future.

United’s Strategic Path and Ten Hag’s Vision

The five names represent different pathways Manchester United could pursue depending on their priorities. While Osimhen and Vlahovic offer established experience and immediate goalscoring impact, Gyökeres, Ferguson, and Yildiz represent younger, versatile alternatives with lower financial risks. United must balance their transfer approach, focusing on short-term competitiveness while adhering to financial restrictions and long-term squad development.

Erik ten Hag has made it clear that rebuilding his attacking options is essential, particularly given Rashford’s inconsistencies and United’s need for sustained goalscoring reliability. Rashford’s potential departure could free up funds, allowing the Red Devils to prioritize one or multiple options from this list.

As Manchester United prepares for a pivotal transfer window in January, the focus will be on whether they prioritize established talent like Osimhen or Vlahovic or lean toward younger, developing players like Gyökeres, Ferguson, or Yildiz. Ten Hag’s system demands creativity, pace, and adaptability, and these candidates would each provide different skill sets that align with his tactical philosophy.

With the January window fast approaching, Manchester United fans should prepare for a potentially transformative period. The club has shown intent to rebuild, and these five striker targets represent an exciting and strategic way to reshape the squad in line with the manager’s vision.

The next few weeks could see movement as United attempts to balance ambition, financial planning, and long-term vision with an urgent need to strengthen their attack. Which of these five names will ultimately find their way to Old Trafford? Only time will tell.