Man Utd target Premier League striker duo despite Zirkzee transfer

Updated: 9 Jul 2024 10:22 BST
4 min read

Erik ten Hag, Man Utd, Joshua Zirkzee — © IMAGO

Manchester United are considering Ivan Toney and Dominic Calvert-Lewin as potential striker options, according to a report.

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The Red Devils' summer window has now fully kicked off in earnest. Man Utd are one step away from signing Joshua Zirkzee, while they are also closing in on the arrival of Matthijs de Ligt.

Additionally, Erik ten Hag and company want to strengthen the midfield with the signing of Manuel Ugarte, while former top target Jarrad Branthwaite is also still on the agenda, with Man Utd having just launched a new, lowball offer for the Everton man.

However, even if they manage to pull off this €200 million spending spree on these four players, their summer business may not be completed just yet. According to The Athletic, it is entirely possible that Man Utd will target another striker in addition to Bologna star Zirkzee.

The Dutchman is far from the most prolific centre-forward and due to his versatility and unique skill set, which often sees him play more like an elegant No.10 rather than a 193cm (6ft 4in) target man, Man Utd feel as though there is still room in the squad for a more traditional, Premier League-proven number nine.

Toney, Calvert-Lewin discussed

According to the above-mentioned report, Ivan Toney and Dominic Calvert-Lewin have been internally discussed at Man Utd as potential options to further bolster Ten Hag's frontline.

Of course, Man Utd's interest in both has been established for some time, but the fact that they are willing to pursue them even after the signing of Zirkzee is intriguing.

Both players have indicated that they won't be extending their expiring contracts at their respective clubs and the Red Devils feel as though they can land one of them on a cut-price deal.

While Brentford will initially demand north of €60 million for Toney, it is expected that the England star will likely not cost more than €50m. Calvert-Lewin, meanwhile, could be available for as little as €40m.

However, despite this, Man Utd will need to raise some funds via sales if they wish to sign either of them in addition to De Ligt, Zirkzee and potentially Ugarte and Branthwaite.