UCL return brings new headache: Ratcliffe faces surprise Man United dilemma, three solutions emerge
Manchester United are bracing themselves for a hectic and defining summer transfer window.
INEOS are already aware that they need to sign at least two new midfielders and a left-back. This is non-negotiable.
A pulsating victory over Liverpool has secured their return to the UEFA Champions League (UCL).
However, Sir Jim Ratcliffe and his team have no time to relax.
Benjamin Sesko was taken off at the interval after picking up a knock against Liverpool. While Sesko has been a brilliant addition, his season has been disrupted by recurring minor injuries.
With a heavier fixture schedule looming next season, United may be compelled to recruit a reliable back-up striker.
Ideally, the Red Devils would also like to strengthen their options out wide.
Rather than a traditional centre-forward, United could target a versatile left winger capable of operating as a number nine.
Anthony Gordon is one such option, but the Newcastle United star is reportedly attracting interest from Bayern Munich.
A potential return for Marcus Rashford would offer an internal solution, but that scenario appears highly unlikely after his fallout with the former United manager.
Joshua Zirkzee remains a viable alternative if the club opts to retain him for another season.
However, Zirkzee is not a like-for-like replacement for Sesko in terms of profile.
The Dutch forward lacks blistering pace and does not operate as a conventional number nine. He prefers to drop deep to connect play and create space for runners around him.
Chido Obi has played seven times for the first team and would be eager to earn a permanent promotion to the senior set-up after working hard at academy level this campaign.
The situation presents a significant dilemma for Ratcliffe and the United hierarchy as they map out their transfer strategy.
Getting these decisions right could be the difference between simply competing and genuinely challenging for the title.
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Article written by Sanidhya Bhardwaj .