Manchester United striker duo Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee have been signed for a combined £108m over the past two summers. And the two have only scored a total of 3 goals in all competitions this season.
It is no surprise that the arrival of coach Ruben Amorim at Old Trafford has brought a series of speculations about Viktor Gyokeres, Sporting's star striker.
The "Red Devils" could well make a move to recruit this rising young star. 23 goals in 19 matches this season is an extremely impressive number for Gyokeres.
Man United could sign Gyokeres as early as possible, if he chooses to follow in Amorim's footsteps, next summer. The Portuguese has ruled out any signings from Sporting in January. And there is no guarantee that United will chase the Swedish striker.
Therefore, Amorim will have to find a way to make the most of the personnel available at Old Trafford at the moment.
Hojlund, just 21, has endured a disappointing start to the season. The Danish striker has been isolated and lacking support from his teammates, even as his form has improved under Ruud van Nistelrooy. How Hojlund connects to the surrounding satellites will be the key.
Apart from a run of six consecutive goals last season, Hojlund has been inconsistent since moving to Man United from Atalanta. There is still confidence that he can turn things around, but the longer his current form of instability continues, the more Hojlund loses confidence.
Zirkzee, meanwhile, has yet to score since his first goal against Fulham in the opening match of the Premier League this season. The Dutch striker has impressed in midfield, but has yet to demonstrate the attacking instinct to become Man United's "number 9".
In addition, according to British media, Amorim will also decide Marcus Rashford's future. If he does not improve his form soon, the English striker may have to leave Old Trafford.
Rashford has played 18 matches in all competitions for the "Red Devils" this season, scoring 4 goals and 3 assists.
