Man Utd eye “world class” Arsenal target to replace injured star


Manchester United are continuing to explore ways to strengthen their squad despite the uncertainty surrounding Michael Carrick’s future at Old Trafford.

The Red Devils have endured a miserable start to the campaign, leaving Carrick under considerable pressure and raising questions about the club’s recruitment strategy.

However, with United’s hierarchy prepared to give their manager another opportunity to turn things around, attention is also turning towards potential reinforcements, particularly in attack.

Man Utd back Michael Carrick as Wilcox faces pressure

Michael-Carrick-Como-Man-Utd REUTERS/Alessandro Garofalo

Carrick appeared to be approaching the end of his tenure following Sunday’s humiliating 3-0 home defeat to Bournemouth, which left United 16th in the Premier League table.

The former midfielder has overseen just one league victory this season, with United now without a win in eight matches across all competitions.

Nevertheless, he will remain in charge for Saturday’s trip to Chelsea, with the Red Devils prepared to give him an opportunity to improve results.

That decision has not ended the scrutiny surrounding those responsible for United’s struggles. Director of football Jason Wilcox is also facing questions over the club’s recruitment, with concerns about whether sufficient attention was given to strengthening key areas of the squad.

Although his future is under scrutiny, Wilcox reportedly has some sympathy from the United hierarchy and will have a significant role to play in identifying potential improvements.

And one area United may need to address sooner rather than later is their lack of options at centre-forward.

Benjamin Sesko injury leaves Man Utd short of attacking options

sesko-carrick-man-utd Reuters/Jason Cairnduff

United’s attacking problems have been compounded by a significant setback involving Benjamin Sesko, who is now expected to remain sidelined until at least January.

The Slovenian is struggling with a shin injury and has not featured since September’s Carabao Cup defeat to Brighton.

The problem is understood to be an impact injury rather than shin splints, with the striker undergoing several examinations as United attempt to establish the extent of the issue.

Sesko, who arrived from RB Leipzig for £73.7m in 2025, was United’s joint-leading Premier League goalscorer last season with 11 goals.

Benjamin-Sesko-Man-Utd-Sabah Action Images via Reuters/Lee Smith

His absence has left Carrick without a natural number nine, adding to the difficulties facing a side already struggling to produce consistent attacking performances.

While it remains unclear whether United will pursue a striker in January, their reported interest in one of Europe’s most promising young forwards suggests the position is firmly on their radar.

Man Utd join Arsenal in race for “world class” Nicolo Tresoldi

Nicolo-Tresoldi-Club-Brugge REUTERS/Daniele Mascolo

Indeed, according to Football Insider, Manchester United have joined the growing list of clubs interested in signing Club Brugge striker Nicolo Tresoldi.

Arsenal had previously been regarded as favourites to secure the 22-year-old’s signature, but United’s emergence could complicate the Gunners’ pursuit.

Chelsea and Tottenham are also monitoring the Germany youth international, whose remarkable goalscoring form has attracted attention across Europe.

Tresoldi has scored 12 goals in just 14 appearances across all competitions this season, including a stunning Champions League hat-trick against Inter Milan.

His performances have earned glowing praise from Germany manager Jurgen Klopp, who recently described the youngster as a “world-class talent” while discussing his international future.

“Tresoldi is a world-class talent, but there is no point putting pressure on the lad because of his decision about which national team he wants to play for.

“He is with the under-21s for now and has time. But yes, he has outstanding qualities, and we want to give him the peace and space he needs to make this important decision.”

However, United may have to wait until next summer to make their move, with Football Insider reporting that Club Brugge have no intention of selling Tresoldi in January.

With the striker contracted until 2029 and competition for his signature intensifying, securing his services could prove difficult.

Nevertheless, United’s interest underlines the importance of strengthening their attacking options, particularly with Sesko’s injury exposing their lack of depth up front.



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