Top 4 Free Agent Strikers Manchester United Could Sign After Sesko's Injury

Benjamin Sesko's ongoing shin injury leaves Manchester United in a difficult spot, with uncertainty over his return after the international break. The Slovenian forward was ruled out of his national team's upcoming matches, putting pressure on United's attacking options.

Michael Carrick's squad has managed just five points from their first 15 Premier League games. Sesko's absence meant Matheus Cunha stepped in as a makeshift centre-forward against Fulham, but Cunha is more effective playing from the left wing. Sesko had been United’s main striker, scoring 11 league goals before the injury disrupted his season.

Sesko Apologizes and Focuses on Recovery

The injury first sidelined Sesko during the last three games of the previous season and also kept him out of pre-season preparations. Through an Instagram post, the forward expressed regret about missing the national team’s fixtures:

"I am very sorry that I will have to miss the national team's upcoming matches. I have always played for Slovenia - and always will - with heart and pride.Right now, the most important thing is to focus fully on my recovery. I am already working on getting back on the pitch as soon as possible to help both the national team and my club once again.I believe in our guys, and I am certain that this time, too, they will display the team spirit that has always defined us. I can't wait to wear the national team jersey again; until then, I will be Slovenia's biggest supporter. Go Slovenia."

Manchester United confirmed that Sesko will undergo fitness tests this week to establish his recovery plan.

Potential Free Agent Strikers for Manchester United

With Sesko sidelined, and players like Cunha, Marcus Rashford, and Bryan Mbeumo more suited to roles other than centre-forward, United may need to explore outside options. Joshua Zirkzee remains at Old Trafford but is not favored under Carrick and did not secure a summer transfer.

Several notable free agents could fill the gap despite the closed transfer window:

• Karim Benzema – Recently departed from Al-Hilal, the Ballon d'Or winner remains one of the top free agent forwards available, bringing world-class experience and skill.
• Anthony Martial – Former United striker, now 30, Martial is unattached. His career at Old Trafford showed promise, though it hasn't fully materialized as hoped.
• Mauro Icardi – The Argentine forward boasts over 280 career goals, offering a proven scoring record.
• Joselu – The Spaniard, last seen with Qatari side Al-Gharafa, previously helped Real Madrid reach the 2024 Champions League, providing a seasoned option upfront.