Manchester United wanted to sign a striker this summer. Ruben Amorim was not impressed with both Joshua Zirkzee and Rasmus Hojlund.
That is why the Red Devils signed Benjamin Sesko after paying €85 million to RB Leipzig. After that, they allowed Hojlund to leave on loan to Napoli.
Zirkzee stayed behind as he wanted to prove his worth at United. But he is struggling to get game time this season as Amorim is starting Sesko up front.
Also, with United out of the Carabao Cup and they are not in Europe this season, chances will be hard to come by for Zirkzee.
That is why the Dutch international is looking to leave the club in January or next summer. That is why Manchester United are also looking for his replacement.
The club’s scouting team has turned its attention to one of Europe’s most prolific finishers from last season, who is now playing in Saudi Arabia.
According to Fichajes, Manchester United are keeping a close eye on Mateo Retegui. They are viewing the Italy international as a potential target for the summer of 2026.
The club are believed to be willing to invest around £52 million to bring him back to Europe after just one season abroad.
The 26-year-old forward has made an impressive start to life in Saudi Arabia. He scored 3 goals in his first 5 matches for Al-Qadsiah.
But his journey to the Saudi Pro League followed a remarkable rise in Italy that made him one of Serie A’s standout goal scorers.
Retegui enjoyed a breakout campaign with Atalanta in 2024–25, finding the net 28 times in all competitions.
His 25 Serie A goals helped the Italian side secure a Champions League spot. But his move to Al-Qadsiah for £56.5 million came as a surprise to many.
Manchester United’s interest is serious, and Retegui could become one of their top attacking priorities in 2026.
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