By Africalivenews Staff
Former Manchester United midfield legend Paul Scholes has called on the club to make a bold statement in the summer transfer market by signing two of Europe’s most prolific strikers—Nigeria’s Victor Osimhen and Sweden’s Viktor Gyokeres.
With the Red Devils looking to revamp their attacking line ahead of the 2025/26 season, Scholes believes the addition of both forwards would not only bolster the club’s firepower but also offer much-needed support to young Danish striker Rasmus Højlund, who has carried the weight of United’s goal-scoring responsibilities alone for much of the past year.
Scholes: United Should Go Big with Osimhen and Gyokeres
Speaking on the popular show The Overlap Fan Debate, Scholes shared his thoughts on Manchester United’s offensive struggles and the path forward under the club’s evolving leadership.
“I think Osimhen, it sounds like a doable one,” said Scholes. “When you talk about financial problems, Osimhen could be doable. But I would keep Højlund.”
He continued:
“I know he has not been great, but he’s a 22-year-old kid who’s been playing on his own for Manchester United for the last two years. Manchester United should have at least three top centre-forwards. I would have him, Osimhen, and Gyokeres.”
Scholes’ comments come at a pivotal moment for the club, as they prepare for what is expected to be one of their busiest transfer windows in recent years.
Osimhen and Gyokeres Linked with Old Trafford Move
Victor Osimhen, currently with Serie A giants Napoli, has long been on United’s radar. The Nigerian striker enjoyed another impressive campaign in Italy, following up his 2022/23 Golden Boot-winning season with more key performances that kept him among Europe’s elite finishers.
Despite persistent interest from Chelsea, Paris Saint-Germain, and Saudi Arabian clubs, Manchester United have maintained a strong interest in the 25-year-old. Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis has hinted that the player could be available for the right offer this summer, with reports suggesting a release clause in the region of €120 million.
Meanwhile, Viktor Gyokeres, who starred for Portuguese champions Sporting CP last season, has also attracted admiration from top Premier League sides. The Swedish international scored 29 goals in all competitions, earning rave reviews for his strength, work ethic, and versatility.
At just 26, Gyokeres is seen as a forward entering his prime and would provide a dynamic and physical option up front—traits that Scholes believes Manchester United are lacking in their current setup.
Højlund Still Has Potential, Says Scholes
While Scholes is advocating for the signings of Osimhen and Gyokeres, he was clear in stating that Rasmus Højlund should not be cast aside. The Danish striker, who joined United from Atalanta in a deal worth £64 million last summer, has had an up-and-down debut season but showed glimpses of promise.
Højlund netted 10 goals in his first Premier League campaign and became the youngest-ever United player to score in five consecutive league matches. However, inconsistency, a lack of service, and tactical instability hampered his overall impact.
“You can’t put all the pressure on Højlund. He’s still learning, still adapting. What he needs is help—not to be replaced,” Scholes argued. “With two experienced forwards like Osimhen and Gyokeres beside him, he can develop without pressure.”
Recent Signing: Matheus Cunha
United have already taken a step toward strengthening their frontline by securing the signature of Brazilian forward Matheus Cunha from Wolverhampton Wanderers earlier this month. The £43 million deal, announced by the club last week, brings a versatile attacking option who can play across the front three.
Cunha scored 12 Premier League goals last season and was one of Wolves’ standout performers. His arrival is expected to provide more flexibility and competition in the forward line, but Scholes insists the job is not done yet.
“Cunha is a good addition, but we need goal machines,” Scholes emphasized. “If we’re serious about closing the gap on Manchester City and Arsenal, we need to bring in elite-level finishers.”
United’s Transfer Priorities
With new minority stakeholder Sir Jim Ratcliffe and INEOS taking more control over football operations, Manchester United are undergoing significant structural changes. Their revamped recruitment team, led by incoming sporting director Dan Ashworth, is reportedly prioritising marquee attacking reinforcements.
Alongside Osimhen and Gyokeres, other names linked include Joshua Zirkzee of Bologna and Lille’s Jonathan David. However, both Osimhen and Gyokeres are seen as the top-tier targets that could instantly transform United’s attack.
The Red Devils are also expected to offload several players to fund these moves. Anthony Martial has already left the club upon the expiration of his contract, while Jadon Sancho and Mason Greenwood are among those expected to depart permanently.
Fan Reactions and What It Means for United’s Future
Scholes’ comments have resonated with many fans who believe United need a complete attacking overhaul to compete at the highest level. On social media, many supporters expressed enthusiasm at the idea of seeing Osimhen in red.
“Osimhen and Gyokeres? That’s the strike force of dreams. We need goals, and these two can deliver,” one user posted on X.
Others were quick to back Højlund, agreeing with Scholes that the young Dane deserves patience and guidance rather than immediate replacement.
“Let’s not forget what Højlund achieved this season despite all the chaos. With help, he can be our main man in a couple of years,” a United fan wrote.
Final Thoughts
Paul Scholes has added his voice to the growing chorus of United legends calling for serious investment this summer. The message is clear: Manchester United can no longer afford to experiment with potential alone. Proven quality must be brought in—starting with strikers who can deliver goals consistently.
If the club takes his advice and pursues both Victor Osimhen and Viktor Gyokeres, it could mark the beginning of a new attacking era at Old Trafford—one where Højlund is not burdened, but empowered.
