Alexander Sorloth: Man United’s plans for Atletico hotshot revealed as Zirkzee nears an exit | OneFootball

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Manchester United will need to bring in a backup for Benjamin Sesko if Joshua Zirkzee ends up departing before the transfer deadline.

The Dutchman has turned down a move to Fiorentina, as Juventus lie in wait. Should the Bianconeri get their man, Michael Carrick will be short of options up top.

The Slovenian is yet to get match-fit, while Matheus Cunha has not set the stage alight when playing as the false nine.

With Bryan Mbeumo forced to play out wide on the right in Amad’s absence, INEOS cannot afford to overburden Sesko.

Why United need a backup striker

Juventus had offered Jonathan David as part of a swap deal proposal, but that is unlikely to be accepted given the Canadian’s struggles in Turin.

Younger options have also been mooted, but the Red Devils prefer a senior name, someone who can show the former RB Leipzig ace the ropes while leading the line in certain games.

Alexander Sorloth of Atletico Madrid has emerged as an option, with the Norwegian offered to the 20-time English league champions.

The 30-year-old can be United’s if they pay £30 million, but INEOS are unlikely to pay as much for a backup option.

United’s plans for Alexander Sorloth revealed

In fact, as revealed by CaughtOffside, the co-owners will try and negotiate a loan deal with the Spanish giants instead.

“Alexander Sorloth has been offered to Manchester United, and, as of yet, they have not ruled out a move,” one source explained.

“Other clubs could be there too, so United need to decide fast. As things stand, I’m not sure they’d pay the £30m asking price, but they might try to negotiate a loan.”

It makes sense not to pay as much for Alexander Sorloth, but United need a striker and time is running out.

Jean-Philippe Mateta would be a much more reliable option, but Crystal Palace’s demands are significant. A move depends on whether United can offload Zirkzee permanently.