Manchester United could look to strengthen their attacking options following Mauricio Pochettino’s appointment, with the Argentine set to be backed in the transfer market.
The former Tottenham manager inherits a squad that has struggled for consistent contributions from several of its forwards.
Man Utd attacking struggles give Pochettino plenty to consider
United have relied heavily on Bruno Fernandes and Bryan Mbeumo for goals this season, with the pair scoring eight of the club’s 14 Premier League goals.
|
United’s attacking options |
PL apps |
Goals |
Assists |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Bruno Fernandes |
9 |
4 |
2 |
|
Bryan Mbeumo |
10 |
4 |
0 |
|
Matheus Cunha |
10 |
1 |
2 |
|
Joshua Zirkzee |
6 |
1 |
0 |
|
Benjamin Sesko |
4 |
1 |
0 |
|
Marcus Rashford |
6 |
0 |
0 |
|
Amad Diallo |
5 |
0 |
0 |
|
Mason Mount |
5 |
0 |
0 |
|
Shea Lacey |
3 |
0 |
0 |
Benjamin Sesko’s shin injury has further complicated matters, with the Slovenian expected to remain sidelined until January.
That has forced Mbeumo into an unfamiliar central role, while Joshua Zirkzee has been limited to substitute appearances and could leave the club next year.
United are consequently short of dependable options across their frontline, particularly with Rashford’s long-term future also uncertain.
Pochettino is expected to receive backing in the transfer market, and one exciting Premier League forward with a long-standing connection to United has now spoken openly about his affection for the club.
Rayan reveals dream of playing at Old Trafford
Shortly after news broke of Pochettino’s agreement to take over, Bournemouth forward Rayan revealed that he grew up supporting Manchester United, having been inspired by Cristiano Ronaldo.
Speaking to ESPN Brazil alongside teammate Evanilson, the 20-year-old discussed the significance of Bournemouth’s 3-0 victory at Old Trafford last month, during which he scored against his boyhood club.
Rayan explained that he had spoken to his wife and family about the experience, telling them: “I’ve always supported Manchester United here in England.”
Playing at the Theatre of Dreams had been a childhood ambition, with Rayan admitting that the occasion was “a dream come true”.
United’s interest in Rayan dates back to January, when the forward was still playing for Vasco da Gama.
Journalist Eduardo Burgos reported the Red Devils were monitoring the Brazilian before Bournemouth secured his signature, and they have tracked his progress on the South coast ever since.
Interestingly, the youngster has a €100m (£83m) release clause which becomes active in the summer of 2027.
Danny Murphy hails Rayan’s phenomenal Bournemouth impact
Rayan has established himself as one of Bournemouth’s most exciting attacking players since arriving from Brazil, offering pace, directness and an eye for goal.
Former Liverpool midfielder Danny Murphy has praised the youngster as a “phenomenal” signing and “super talent” for the Cherries, highlighting his talent and the impact he has made in English football.
|
Club/country |
Apps |
Goals |
Assists |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Vasco da Gama |
99 |
25 |
2 |
|
Bournemouth |
31 |
10 |
2 |
|
Brazil |
8 |
2 |
1 |
|
Total |
138 |
37 |
5 |
Rayan’s versatility is another attractive quality, with the left-footed attacker comfortable operating on either flank or through the middle.
However, Bournemouth are unlikely to surrender one of their prized assets cheaply, particularly after his impressive development since arriving in the Premier League.
United missed their opportunity to sign Rayan directly from Brazil earlier this year, but his latest comments suggest Old Trafford retains a special appeal should another chance emerge.
