Manchester United will have to look elsewhere for a new striker after Erling Haaland decided to join Borussia Dortmund.
The Red Devils were the favourites to sign the 19-year-old striker, who is widely considered one of the most talented young players in Europe.
Haaland’s agent, Mino Raiola, even publicly confirmed United’s interest in the former Red Bull Salzburg forward.
“The club that he had the most direct contact with him was Manchester United,” Raiola said.
“They spoke to him the most. Everybody had the chance to talk to him in person. We let that happen especially when he knows Ole.
“Clearly he felt that at this moment it was not the right step in his career. There is nothing against Manchester United or Ole.
“He chose Borussia Dortmund ahead of them and other clubs.”
Nonetheless, a young striker remains the priority at Old Trafford next month, so we’ve taken a look at some of the alternatives…
According to The Sun, Manchester United are planing a move for Everton striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin in January.
The 22-year-old has hit form under Carlo Ancelotti, netting three times in the Italian’s opening two matches, and the new Toffees boss admits he’s a huge fan.
Ancelotti said: “He is a fantastic striker in my opinion – fantastic with the head, clever in the box, and sharp.
“But he’s young and for this reason he has to improve. He is a humble guy and he doesn’t talk a lot.
“I think he is going to be at the top in England and in Europe. He has all the qualities to be a top striker.”
Everton reportedly want £50million for the England Under-21 international.
The Red Devils apparently have their eye on another Everton forward, too.
Richarlison, also 22, has been a standout performer for the Toffees since joining last year and even gets in the Brazil team these days.
However, it is understood Ancelotti also likes the Brazilian and will block any attempt from United to lure him away.
Werner is one of the hottest prospects in Europe and Chelsea are thought to be extremely keen, now that their transfer ban has been lifted.
The 23-year-old Germany international has 18 goals in 17 Bundesliga matches for RB Leipzig this season, leading his club’s unlikely title charge.
While it’s unlikely Leipzig will let him go in January, Man United could certainly do much worse.
The Red Devils have been linked with Sancho for quite a few months now, and it seems like January will be the month he finally returns to England.
Chelsea and Liverpool are also thought to want the 19-year-old, who has nine goals and nine assists in 15 Bundesliga matches for Borussia Dortmund this season.
According to The Times, Dortmund are now ready to listen to offers for the England winger having landed Haaland.
And the report claims Dortmund have put a £100million price tag on the Englishman.
There was a lot pressure on the Frenchman’s shoulders when he moved to Lyon from Celtic last summer but he delivered with 19 goals in all competitions for the Ligue 1 side.
The 23-year-old has continued his good form into this campaign, having already totted up ten goals in 18 matches for the Ligue 1 outfit.
A host of European clubs, including Chelsea, are tracking the striker and Man United could be tempted.
He is no stranger to English football, having played for Fulham before joining Celtic, but he was still very young during his spell with the Cottagers and now he has more experience under his belt in the Scottish and French leagues.
The 21-year-old has been in fine form this season, netting ten goals in 18 top-flight games.
Osimhen only joined the French side in July after they sold Nicolas Pepe to Arsenal, and he was named the Ligue 1 Player of the Month in October.
According to the Daily Express, Liverpool are keeping tabs on the 21-year-old Nigeria international ahead of a potential January swoop.
But the Red Devils may yet throw their name into the hat after missing out on Haaland.