Manchester United have now entered contention to sign a new striker in 2027, with Benjamin Sesko and Joshua Zirkzee yet to make a real impact in front of goal this season.

Sesko has been struggling on the injury front, meaning the Slovenian's game in the Premier League this season has been limited, although Paul Scholes wasn't entirely convinced he should have missed the 1-1 draw at Fulham.

Scholes said: "How do you get injured in your leg? Isn't that a broken leg? Can't you just wear shin pads?"

Nicky Butt added: "Either you break your leg, or you play. Wear shin pads or padding, I don't quite understand it. It's hard to discuss without knowing what it is."

Zirkzee, on the other hand, has featured for just 20 minutes in the Premier League, after attracting interest during the summer transfer window, which has left Matheus Cunha, who is often deployed in a deeper role, to lead the line.

Cunha has fared relatively well, picking up two goals and two assists in seven matches across all competitions, but the Red Devils are now looking at adding a new centre-forward to their ranks in 2027.

Man Utd keen on signing Igor Matanovic

According to a report from Football Insider, Manchester United are now in contention to sign SC Freiburg star Igor Matanovic, but they will have to wait until next summer before pursuing a deal, as the German side are unwilling to sanction a departure during the January transfer window.

Arsenal and Chelsea have also emerged as potential suitors for Matanovic, given that he has been in red-hot form this season, picking up six goals and two assists in seven matches across all competitions.

TEAMtalk further reveal that a £50m price tag may be enough to prise him away from Germany, with United officials in talks behind the scenes at Old Trafford over whether to match that asking price.

The 23-year-old has been outscoring some of Michael Carrick's most important players, including Bruno Fernandes and Bryan Mbeumo, while he has also received plaudits from Eintracht Frankfurt board member Markus Krosche.

Krosche was left impressed by the Croatian's performances during his solid loan spell at Karlsruhe, saying: "Igor has developed superbly and made a big step in Karlsruhe. We hope that he will arrive with us in the summer. He has an exceptional profile."

As such, Matanovic could be a solid long-term addition to Carrick's squad, and Man United should continue to monitor his performances ahead of the January transfer window, with a view to making a move if Zirkzee departs the club.