Manchester United have invested around £110 million over the last two summer transfer windows to bolster their attack by signing Rasmus Højlund and Joshua Zirkzee. However, both players have struggled to live up to expectations. Højlund has shown flashes of potential but lacks consistency in the Premier League, while Zirkzee has found it challenging to adjust to the demands of English football.
This lack of firepower has contributed to United’s difficulties in scoring goals this season. According to TEAMtalk, manager Ruben Amorim is eager to strengthen the No. 9 position and is targeting Paris Saint-Germain forward Randal Kolo Muani.
Kolo Muani: United’s January Target
The French striker has fallen out of favor at PSG, and the club is open to selling him in the January transfer window. However, securing Kolo Muani will be challenging, as Arsenal, Chelsea, and Tottenham Hotspur are also interested in signing him.
Currently earning £203,000 per week, Kolo Muani has struggled for playing time this season, starting just two matches across all competitions and being excluded from PSG’s last two matchday squads. Despite these challenges, the 26-year-old showed his potential last season with six goals and five assists in 13 Ligue 1 starts. His versatility as both a center-forward and winger, combined with his speed and creativity, makes him an attractive prospect.
Challenges with Kolo Muani
Though Kolo Muani’s profile suggests he could add depth and flexibility to United’s attack, his limited playing time and recent struggles raise some concerns:
- Form and Fitness: His lack of regular appearances at PSG could impact his ability to quickly adapt to the Premier League.
- High Competition: With other Premier League clubs also interested, his transfer fee and wage demands could increase, making him a potentially expensive gamble.
- Fit for United’s Needs: United require a proven, reliable goal-scorer to address their current issues, and Kolo Muani may not be able to provide the consistency needed immediately.
United’s Current Striking Dilemma
- Rasmus Højlund: The £72m signing has shown moments of brilliance but still needs time to develop into a consistent threat.
- Joshua Zirkzee: The £36.5m acquisition has scored only three goals in 18 league appearances, highlighting his struggle to adapt to English football.
What’s Next for United?
Amorim must carefully assess whether Kolo Muani is the right fit for the team. While his versatility and potential are promising, United may benefit from pursuing a more proven goal-scorer with a solid track record in the Premier League or another top league. Alternatives like Victor Osimhen or other established forwards may better meet the team’s urgent needs.
Conclusion
Randal Kolo Muani shows promise but comes with risks. Given the pressure on United to achieve results, the club must prioritize a forward who can make an immediate impact. Kolo Muani could be a valuable addition, but only if United can ensure he fits into Amorim’s system and performs consistently from the start.
