Manchester United transfer shortlist revealed with 3 strikers making the cut

Manchester United are reportedly eyeing up three potential striker signings in the upcoming summer transfer window.

Erik ten Hag has struggled to find a reliable No. 9 during his first two seasons at the helm, with 21 year old Rasmus Hojlund shouldering much of the responsibility last season as he looked to adapt to life in the English Premier League football and battled through a series of injuries. Following Anthony Martial's departure, the Old Trafford youngster is now the only recognised striker at the club, but United are poised to bring in reinforcements.

The transfer window is ready to swing into action officially this weekend and co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe and other key figures at the Red Devils are ready to back Ten Hag - who they've decided to stick by after speculation over his future at the club. According to ESPN, United have three different options on their radar. Brentford's Ivan Toney, who will represent England at Euro 2024, is the most well-known striker on United's shortlist, reports the Mirror.

However, since returning from an eight-month ban in January for admitting to 262 breaches of FA betting rules, he has struggled to regain his goalscoring touch. The 28-year-old is entering the final year of his contract and anticipates being on the market in the coming months. Meanwhile, Bologna's Joshua Zirkzee, who netted 11 goals in 34 Serie A games to propel his team into the Champions League under manager Thiago Motta, who is set to join Juventus, is also a potential target.

Despite failing to impress at Bayern Munich earlier in his career, Zirkzee has found success in Italy. The 22-year-old Dutchman reportedly has a £34million release clause in his contract, which has two years remaining, attracting interest from EPL rivals Arsenal and Italian giants AC Milan.

Lastly, Lille forward Jonathan David is said to be on United's radar. Like Toney, David's contract is due to expire in June 2025, putting Lille under pressure to sell him this summer or risk losing him for free next year.

The 24-year-old Canadian international will represent his country at the Copa America this summer, potentially increasing his value. David notably helped Lille secure the Ligue 1 title in 2021 and has consistently scored an impressive 26 goals in each of the last two seasons.