Joshua Zirkzee, Ivan Toney and Jonathan David on Manchester United’s striker transfer shortlist – Paper Round

Manchester United want to sign another striker to help Rasmus Hojlund, according to The Independent.

Bologna striker Joshua Zirkzee, Brentford’s Ivan Toney and Lille’s Jonathan David are all under consideration.

“Manager Erik ten Hag admitted he wanted to sign two centre-forwards last summer and, after Anthony Martial was released at the end of the season, Rasmus Hojlund is the only specialist number 9 in his squad.

“The Dane scored 16 goals in his first season at Old Trafford, but United felt he was overstretched because Martial was often injured and are now looking for an alternative.

“They are also expected to target a central midfielder and a centre-back, with Everton’s Jarrad Branthwaite a potential target to replace the departed Raphael Varane.”

Like United, Arsenal are looking to make a move as they look to strengthen ahead of next season.

The post reads: “Arsenal have abandoned their pursuit of a new striker after being rejected by Benjamin Sesko.

“The Gunners had previously prioritized a move for the Red Bull Leipzig forward. They were considering activating the £55m release clause written into his contract with the German side.

“However, Arsenal were not the only team interested. Premier League rivals Manchester United and Chelsea were keeping a close eye on Sesko. Now it looks like neither of them will sign him. The Slovenian striker has signed a new contract with Leipzig until 2029.

“Mikel Arteta is keen to add to his wide options ahead of the start of the 2024/25 campaign. The Gunners have already been linked with a host of wingers, including Sporting Lisbon star Marcus Edwards, Wolves’ Pedro Neto and Athletic Bilbao’s Nico Williams.

“Aside from one winger, the Gunners are also keen to add to their midfield options, with Real Sociedad star Martin Zubimendi a long-term target for the north London outfit.”

Following news that Manchester United have decided to keep Erik ten Hag as manager, the club have decided to offer the Dutchman a new deal.

He will be offered two more years at Old Trafford after winning the FA Cup at the end of the domestic season.

“It was decided following a meeting on Tuesday that Ten Hag would remain at the club after months of uncertainty over his future.

“The Ten Hag grew increasingly frustrated as United’s end-of-season review dragged on for a third week, fearing it would affect transfer plans as well as his own position.

“The Dutchman wanted to continue and agreed to discuss a new extended contract. A preliminary discussion has taken place with United, suggesting they have not reached details on the length of a deal. There is a wait though, it will be another two years.”

Teden Mengi could be on his way from Luton Town in the summer transfer window.

Fulham are interested in the player, but Crystal Palace and Bayer Leverkusen have also shown interest.

“Manager Marco Silva insisted last month that the club needed to strengthen in central defence.

“The need for more centre-backs increased last week when Tosin Adarabioyo’s exit was confirmed, with the 26-year-old leaving on a free transfer to join rivals Chelsea.

“The defender is also reportedly interested in Crystal Palace and was watched at Kenilworth Road last season by Bayer Leverkusen’s UK chief scout Matthew Green as the Hatters lost 3-1 to Sheffield United.”