Three potential big-money signings to replace Zlatan Ibrahimovic at Manchester United

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With news circulating that the injury sustained by Zlatan Ibrahimovic in last week’s Europa League tie may have put an end to his playing career, Manchester United must begin planning for next season without him.

The Mirror have reported that the Swede knows he won’t play for the club again and is set to be out for up to a year after rupturing his anterior cruciate knee ligament. The 35-year-old had supposedly been in talks over a one-year contract extension but is unlikely to be offered a deal now that circumstances have changed.

Even if, for some bizarre reason, he remains at the club (£200,000+ every week is a lot for someone unable to contribute) the Red Devils will be short on strikers for most of the season. It is still unclear where club captain Wayne Rooney will be beyond the summer, having fallen down the pecking order under Jose Mourinho.

The Portuguese manager still has Anthony Martial and Marcus Rashford at his disposal, both of whom are promising talents who have shown their quality in flashes. It is, however, doubtful that Mourinho will be prepared to make either his first choice striker, recruitments will, therefore, be needed. Here are some of the potential candidates…

Romelu Lukaku – Everton

Everton’s prized Belgian, the Premier League’s leading scorer this season, has refused to sign an improved deal at the club, citing a desire to play in the Champions League as his reasoning, in an interview with Sky Sports. 

The wantaway striker is arguably the most sought after player in the league and has been linked with a return to Chelsea who are now set to battle with United for his signature, according to The Star. 

Lukaku is an ideal player for any side wishing to play with a sole striker, as is the current trend amongst top sides. The 23-year-old is one of the most powerful strikers around, he is combative in the air, scores goals from all types of situations and has plenty of time to become world-class, considering his age.

It goes without saying that most United fans would be thrilled if their club signed a player of Lukaku’s stature, but first, they have to secure Champions League football, so that rivals Chelsea do not gain an advantage in the race to sign him.