Manchester United are now being strongly pushed to secure a top-tier striker as a Zirkzee replacement. Concerns about the Dutch forward’s ability to lead the line are rising. As a result, these calls have become even more pressing. Joshua Zirkzee recently joined Man Utd from Bologna in a £36 million deal. He made an immediate impact by scoring a late winner in the Premier League opener against Fulham. However, despite this initial success, there are still questions about his long-term potential. These concerns have led to increasing calls for an additional, more established striker.
Zirkzee is well-known for his versatility as both a No. 9 and No. 10. He has already impressed with his ability to link up play. Nevertheless, some fans and pundits believe that United’s ambitions require a more prolific goal scorer. Furthermore, the young forward’s record of 12 goals in 37 games for Bologna last season has further fueled the debate.
Former Liverpool and Fulham player Danny Murphy, for instance, voiced his concerns. He suggested that Man Utd should instead target Brentford’s Ivan Toney as the ideal Zirkzee replacement. Toney, who boasts 169 career goals, is seen as the kind of genuine No. 9 who could potentially elevate Erik ten Hag’s squad into title contention. Additionally, Murphy criticized Zirkzee’s scoring consistency and emphasized the importance of signing a striker with the experience and confidence to thrive in the Premier League.
Murphy argued that while Zirkzee has potential, a seasoned striker like Toney would better address United’s goalscoring needs. Indeed, Toney has a proven track record that is hard to ignore. Moreover, Murphy also expressed doubts about Rasmus Hojlund’s readiness to deliver the 20 goals a season required to compete at the highest level.
As the transfer window draws to a close, Man Utd faces mounting pressure to secure a Zirkzee replacement who can offer immediate impact. Meanwhile, Brentford’s Toney is reportedly attracting interest from multiple clubs, including Chelsea and Saudi Arabia’s Al-Ahli. Notably, Al-Ahli has set a deadline for Toney’s decision, which further complicates the situation. Therefore, United may need to act swiftly to avoid losing out on the striker.
Consequently, Danny Murphy and other pundits have urged Man Utd to enter negotiations with Brentford as soon as possible. They emphasize that United should not miss out on a player who could be pivotal in their quest for success. Overall, the call for a Zirkzee replacement reflects broader concerns about United’s striking options. Indeed, they need a proven goal scorer to bolster their title hopes.
