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Despite strengthening up front this summer, Erik ten Hag is already under pressure owing to injury worries with the team having to play Fulham in their opener without their recognised centre-forward.
Rasmus Hojlund is expected to miss six weeks and new signing Joshua Zirkzee did not play any part in United’s Community Shield defeat at the hands of fierce cross-town rivals Manchester City.
Whether the Netherlands international is ready remains to be seen. The manager does have the option of playing Marcus Rashford up front but the Mancunian hardly set the stage alight at Wembley, squandering quite a few presentable chances.
It would be unwise for the Dutch boss to rely heavily on the former Bologna ace and it would be reminiscent of last season’s issue as Ten Hag was forced to overplay the Denmark international, to the detriment of his form.
Forward plans
This has meant the Red Devils have been consistently linked with a move for another forward ahead of transfer deadline day, with the names of quite a few Premier League proven talents doing the rounds across gossip columns.
The new co-owners are currently prioritising midfield reinforcements with all eyes on Manuel Ugarte of Paris Saint-Germain while a left-back is another area riddled with injuries and needing of attention.
Having already signed four players this window, the club is not exactly flush with money and unless major departures take place, not much money will be available to bring in a new forward.
But The Athletic‘s very reliable David Ornstein told Sky Sports’ Back Pages podcast (via Givemesport) that another forward coming in towards the end of the window cannot be ruled out along with all the aforementioned other
“Midfield is clearly an area of concern and where they want to invest in central midfield. Do they need extra cover at full-back still?
Another attacker on his way?
“Probably not now that Mazraoui comes in, and interestingly, it’s been given the number three shirt, so maybe he will play it left-back.
“And then perhaps, before the window shuts, maybe something more in attack, they’re constantly being linked. It’s a really fascinating summer at Old Trafford.”
Ivan Toney‘s name has sprung up a few times but whether the England international’s price can be afforded remains a mystery. There is also a lot of interest from Saudi Arabia and the wages on offer there could prove to be the gamechanger.
Dominic Calvert-Lewin of Everton and Brighton’s Evan Ferguson have also found mention. The result of the first few games
will end up deciding how INEOS act.
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