Manchester United strikers Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee were signed for a combined £108m over the past two summers. And they have only scored three goals between them in all competitions this season.
It is no surprise that the arrival of coach Ruben Amorim at Old Trafford has brought with it a flurry of speculation about Viktor Gyokeres, Sporting's star striker.
The "Red Devils" can absolutely make a move to recruit this rising young star. 23 goals after 19 matches this season is an extremely impressive number for Gyokeres.
The earliest United could sign Gyokeres, if he follows Amorim, would be next summer, with the Portuguese tactician ruling out any move from Sporting in January. And there is no certainty that United will pursue the Swedish striker.
Therefore, Amorim will have to find a way to take advantage of the available personnel at Old Trafford at this time.
Hojlund, still just 21, has endured a disappointing start to the season. The Danish striker has looked isolated and lacking support from his team-mates, even as his form has improved under Ruud van Nistelrooy. Finding ways for Hojlund to link up with those around him will be key.
Apart from a run of six consecutive goals last season, Hojlund has been inconsistent since his move to Man United from Atalanta. There is still hope that he can turn things around, but the longer his current form continues, the more his confidence will be eroded.
Zirkzee, meanwhile, has yet to score since his debut against Fulham in the opening game of the Premier League season. The Dutchman has impressed in midfield, but has so far failed to show the killer instinct needed to be a United No. 9.
In addition, according to British media, Amorim will also decide on Marcus Rashford's future. If he does not improve his performance 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 providing 3 assists.
