rewrite this title Man Utd intensify talks for £17m gem who could be their very own Sadio Mane

Manchester United are in the hunt for a new striker and could now be set to intensify their efforts to ensure a new attacker arrives at Old Trafford, according to reports.

Manchester United’s striker chase won’t lead to Alexander Isak

The Red Devils have already brought in Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo this window, and their next priority is now bringing a striker into the fold as Ruben Amorim aims to offer competition to Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee.

However, Ben Jacobs has confirmed Manchester United won’t sign Alexander Isak from Newcastle United despite the Sweden international showing a willingness to leave the North East in search of a new challenge this summer.

He stated: “Manchester United never in the race for Alexander Isak and no plans to bid. Natural appreciation for the Newcastle striker but MUFC have different targets due to overall cost of the deal. Chelsea also not exploring a deal despite suggestions as their focus on Xavi Simons.”

With that thought now put to bed, the Red Devils have held fresh talks to sign Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins, though they aren’t willing to pay the Villans’ £60 million price-tag for the England international.

Fiorentina’s Moise Kean is another name on the radar at Old Trafford. Nevertheless, there is a similar sense that they may need to pay over the odds after his £44 million summer release clause expired.

Attacking reinforcements are paramount for Manchester United to fix their scoring issues in the Premier League. Cunha and Mbeumo will help with the creativity side of things, but they may now have found someone who could move the needle throught the middle.

Manchester United intensify talks to sign Metz striker Idrissa Gueye

According to journalist Sebastien Vidal, Manchester United have intensified their efforts to land Metz striker Idrissa Gueye as he fits their strategy of signing youth that can develop over the coming years at Old Trafford.

He stated on X: “Man United are intensifying talks to sign Metz striker Idrissa Gueye for £17m as part of their youth-focused strategy. Meanwhile, Aston Villa have shut the door on a potential Ollie Watkins exit despite initial contact.”

Likened to compatriot Sadio Mane, the 18-year-old has also been targeted by West Ham United and Southampton of late, illustrating that he is viewed as one for the future by key players in English football.

Tapping into potential has to be the mantra for Manchester United. One game a week will offer Amorim the chance to build a side that won’t be jaded by the prospect of a tight schedule, allowing fringe players and youngsters a healthy chance to stake a claim for minutes.

Gueye may well be in the infancy of his career, though he would likely relish filling the striker void at Old Trafford if a move were to materialise.