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Manchester United are reportedly working on a five-player shortlist as they aim to strengthen their striking options alongside Benjamin Sesko for the next season. The club’s top target is said to be Nigerian forward Victor Osimhen, who is viewed as the ultimate dream signing. However, United face a significant financial barrier, as the enormous cost of prising him away from Galatasaray is pushing them to evaluate more affordable alternatives.

United’s pursuit of a striker to partner Sesko

After Sesko’s impressive debut campaign, during which he scored 12 goals in 32 appearances and played a total of 1,817 minutes, the club has concluded that acquiring another proven striker is essential to continue their rebuilding process. According to CaughtOffside, Osimhen is seen as the ideal target to complement the young Slovenian forward.

Osimhen’s lofty valuation is justified by his exceptional record — the Nigerian striker netted 22 goals in 33 games during the 2025-26 season and has scored 59 goals in 74 appearances overall for Galatasaray. Yet, bringing him to Old Trafford remains a formidable challenge. Since his €75 million permanent transfer in 2025, the huge fee required to secure his services has become a stumbling block, compelling United to explore other flexible and cost-effective options.

Considering more affordable alternatives

CaughtOffside has identified French forward Jean-Philippe Mateta among the possible alternatives. Mateta, who already possesses valuable Premier League experience, offers physicality, consistency, and a strong work ethic. While he may not carry the global star power of Osimhen, his familiarity with English football makes him a practical and reliable option. Another name under consideration is Dusan Vlahovic, whose future at Juventus remains uncertain. The Serbian striker is viewed by United as a strong market opportunity due to his imposing frame, sharp finishing, and top-level experience, which could add a new dimension to their attacking setup.

Balancing youth prospects with experience

The shortlist also highlights Manchester United’s strategy of maintaining a blend between emerging talent and seasoned professionals rather than resorting to a rushed signing. Bournemouth’s rising star Eli Junior Kroupi has reportedly caught United’s attention as a shrewd long-term investment for the future.

In contrast, outgoing Barcelona striker Robert Lewandowski has emerged as the most unexpected inclusion on the list. As per talkSPORT, the Polish veteran is being considered a short-term solution — not only for his proven goal-scoring ability but also for the invaluable mentorship and leadership he could provide to Sesko and other young players in the squad.

What lies ahead for Manchester United?

With Sesko expected to remain the club’s first-choice striker heading into the upcoming season, United are now tasked with narrowing down their shortlist to a single preferred target. In the coming weeks, the club’s management is expected to begin formal negotiations with the selected candidate. For now, however, the team’s immediate focus is on their pre-season preparations, starting with their first friendly fixture against Wrexham on July 18.