Manchester United enjoyed a remarkable turnaround during the 2025-26 campaign after Michael Carrick replaced Ruben Amorim in January.
The Red Devils collected 41 points after New Year’s Day and finished third in the Premier League to secure Champions League qualification.
Their attack also improved significantly, with Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo and Benjamin Sesko all reaching double figures during the campaign.
United have continued reshaping Carrick’s squad this summer, placing a particular focus on strengthening the midfield before the new season.
Andrey Santos arrived from Chelsea, while United activated Youri Tielemans’ £35 million release clause at Aston Villa.
However, several departures have also changed the squad considerably, with Casemiro, Rasmus Hojlund, Jadon Sancho and Tyrell Malacia all leaving.
United could yet make another attacking addition because Joshua Zirkzee continues to face uncertainty over his future at Old Trafford.
Juventus have been pursuing the Dutchman and previously advanced talks over a loan containing a £30 million option to buy.
According to CaughtOffside, Manchester United have internally discussed signing Freiburg forward Igor Matanovic as a potential replacement for Joshua Zirkzee.
The 23-year-old Croatian scored 15 goals for Freiburg last season and has emerged as an option if Zirkzee leaves Manchester.
Matanovic also registered 11 goals and two assists across 31 Bundesliga appearances, starting 14 matches during the campaign.
Tottenham Hotspur are monitoring him as well, which could create competition if United decide to progress beyond their preliminary discussions.
However, United do not currently need to rush into another striker signing while both Sesko and Zirkzee remain available.
Zirkzee has continued featuring throughout pre-season and scored during United’s 1-1 friendly draw against Leeds United.
Carrick already has Sesko as his primary centre-forward, so another addition appears closely connected to Zirkzee’s potential departure.
Therefore, United could keep discussions alive while waiting for greater clarity over the Dutchman’s future before making their next move.
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