Manchester United qualified for next season’s Champions League quite comfortably in the end, with a fourth-placed finish ensuring they achieved their primary aim following last year’s failings.
Having returned to Europe’s premier competition, Louis van Gaal has already set about strengthening his squad for next season as he looks to build a side that can challenge for the Premier League next term.
One man who won’t be involved, however, is Colombian striker Radamel Falcao, who will not be making his loan move from Monaco into a permanent one after failing to impress at Old Trafford.
The forward struck just four times during a dismal campaign, where he failed to live up to expectations.
Falcao’s departure is sure to mean van Gaal will be looking to add another striker to his squad, as he looks to increase his side’s goal threat next campaign.
And if reports are to be believed, they have earmarked a number of potential signings to replace the former Atletico star.
With this in mind, here are five strikers who could be on their way to Manchester United this summer…
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Carlos Bacca
United may well opt to strengthen their front line with another Colombian who has enjoyed a far more prolific season than his international teammate.
Carlos Bacca has certainly impressed this season at Sevilla, scoring 28 times and helping his side lift the Europa League thanks to a double in Wednesday’s final against Dnipro.
With his stock continuing to rise, it’s no surprise to see him linked with a move to the Premier League, and the Red Devils have emerged as favourites to sign the 28-year-old striker who could cost around £21m.
Karim Benzema
Another La Liga star who could be set for a move to the Premier League is Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema.
Reports this week suggest the Frenchman has emerged as a £40m target for Manchester United, who are keen to sign the 27-year-old, a proven goalscorer at the top level.
Benzema has 22 goals this season, but Real are thought to be willing to cash in on the striker who has won every major trophy in his time at the club.
United could well face stiff competition from Arsenal, but Benzema certainly has the quality to fire them to a title challenge should he make the switch to Old Trafford.
Harry Kane
Tottenham’s Harry Kane was one of the standout performers this season in the Premier League, announcing himself at the top level with an impressive 21 goals, a feat that saw him named the PFA Young Player of the Year.
Unsurprisingly his terrific performances this season have already got people talking about his future at White Hart Lane, with Louis van Gaal reportedly making the Englishman one of his top transfer targets this summer.
Although it remains unlikely, should United be able to tempt the striker away from Spurs before next season, they will have to fork out around £45m to get their man.
Edinson Cavani
The future of PSG striker Edinson Cavani was put into doubt recently when the Uruguayan revealed he may need to leave the Ligue 1 champions due to his frustration at being deployed as a winger.
The forward wants to be playing up front, which has led to rumours of a move to either Manchester United or Chelsea, among others.
Despite regularly playing out of position, the 28-year-old has found the net 27 times, something which will certainly catch the eye of van Gaal.
He won’t come cheap however and could cost as much as £50m.
Gonzalo Higuain
Sunday’s Serie A clash between Napoli and Lazio could have a big bearing on the future of Gonzalo Higuain, who is expected to leave Italy should his side fail to qualify for next season’s Champions League.
The Argentine has been linked with a host of clubs including Arsenal and Chelsea, with United also keen on the 27-year old who has 15 goals to his name this season.
Higuain is another option that looks set to cost in excess of £40m, which may mean van Gaal looks elsewhere for a new striker.