Manchester United's forward line is in urgent need: Aiming for a free transfer of veteran players, could Vardy join Old Trafford?
2025-07-08
As the summer transfer window enters a crucial stage, Premier League giants Manchester United are confronted with a thorny problem: how to significantly enhance their disappointing attacking power within a limited budget. The latest news indicates that the Red Devils have set their sights on three experienced free agents, including Leicester City's legendary striker Jamie Vardy. This suggests that Manchester United might choose a "free transfer surprise" to address the urgent need of their forward line.
With a tight budget, Manchester United's transfer strategy has shifted towards "good quality and low price"
Constrained by the principle of financial fair play, the Manchester United management has to be meticulous in their calculations and strive to assist Amorim in building a more competitive squad at the lowest cost. Although they have spent £62.5 million to sign Matthaus Cunha this summer and are actively negotiating with Brentford over the transfer of Brian Mbemu (the potential transfer fee could be as high as £65 million), the issue of the forward line remains unresolved.
Last season, the highly anticipated Danish young player Rasmus Hojlund had a poor performance and failed to carry the team's offensive banner. This made the strengthening of the center forward position an urgent task for Manchester United. Therefore, with the top priority goals hard to achieve, the Red Devils have turned their attention to the free agent market, seeking more cost-effective alternatives.
According to British media reports, Manchester United has received recommendations from three experienced forwards who have represented the England national team and are currently free agents: Jamie Vardy, Callum Wilson and Dominic Calvert-Lewis. These three players not only have rich Premier League experience but also do not require a transfer fee, undoubtedly providing highly attractive options for Manchester United with a limited budget. However, sources revealed that Manchester United will only truly push for the transfer of one of their preferred signing targets if they fail to do so.

Apart from free agents, Manchester United is also closely monitoring Fiorentina striker Moise Keane. The 25-year-old Italian striker's contract includes a release clause of 45 million euros. Despite the high price, his youth and potential still attract the attention of the Red Devils.
In addition, some more sensational names have also been linked with Manchester United, including Paris Saint-Germain striker Hugo Ekitik, Napoli striker Victor Osimhen, Brighton striker Victor Zekaelish and Aston Villa captain Olly Watkins. However, the transfer fees of these players are all expected to be extremely high, which undoubtedly increases the difficulty for Manchester United to make new signings.
While making new signings, Manchester United is also making internal personnel adjustments. Hojlund is expected to remain in the team as there are not many clubs interested in him at present. Meanwhile, five players, including Rashford, Sancho, Garancho, Antony and Malacia, were allowed to delay their return to the team. This was interpreted by the outside world as the club's hope to give them more time to find new clubs in order to free up salary space for new signings.