Paul Scholes has stirred up conversation around Manchester United’s striker hunt following Bryan Mbeumo’s unexpected rejection. The Brentford forward, once believed to be a top target for the Red Devils, has reportedly turned down the chance to join Erik ten Hag’s squad. The refusal has raised eyebrows inside the club, especially given the urgency of their summer rebuild. But rather than lament the loss, Scholes sees this as a redirection, not a derailment.
In an interview that’s now making waves, Scholes boldly declared that Mbeumo’s snub might actually be a stroke of fortune for United. He claimed there are three striker options still on the table — and in his view, each of them is a better fit for the team than Mbeumo ever was. That optimism, coming from a club icon, has started to change the tone of the discussion from despair to determination.
Scholes wasted no time in naming names. First on his list: Jonathan David of Lille. The Canadian striker, known for his agility, ice-cold composure in front of goal, and relentless work ethic, was praised for his all-around game. Scholes likened him to a young Van Nistelrooy, highlighting David’s ability to shoulder attacking responsibilities and find the net under pressure — traits that could be vital for a team often lacking cutting edge.
Next up is Joshua Zirkzee from Bologna, a name already circulating in the transfer rumor mill. Scholes didn’t just echo existing buzz; he emphasized the Dutchman’s flexibility and flair. Zirkzee, he noted, brings more to the table than Mbeumo in terms of creativity and positional play. His ability to drift wide, operate as a false nine, or spearhead the attack adds layers to Ten Hag’s tactical playbook — something sorely needed at Old Trafford.
Then there’s Benjamin Šeško of RB Leipzig — the wildcard with sky-high potential. Standing tall and fast, the Slovenian forward has earned comparisons to Erling Haaland. Scholes believes Šeško could be a generational talent if nurtured correctly. He urged United to make a move before the rest of Europe fully catches on, suggesting the striker’s value could skyrocket within a year.
The rejection of Mbeumo, once seen as a blow, is now being reframed by Scholes as a timely intervention. He insisted United shouldn’t settle for “good” when they’re chasing greatness. Mbeumo might’ve been a solid addition, but the alternatives — in Scholes’ eyes — are game-changers waiting to happen. And in football, timing and vision often separate contenders from champions.
United fans initially reacted to the Mbeumo news with a mix of disappointment and irritation. But Scholes’ confident assessment has helped many see the potential upside. There’s a growing sense that the club might avoid a costly mistake and instead unlock a far better future with the right striker acquisition.
As the clock winds down on the transfer window, the pressure on United’s recruitment team is immense. The decisions made now will shape the entire campaign. Whether it’s David’s ruthlessness, Zirkzee’s unpredictability, or Šeško’s raw explosiveness, the club has options — and Scholes believes they’re golden.
So while Mbeumo may have slammed the door, Scholes is certain there are three others wide open — and possibly leading to something even better. One thing is for sure: United’s striker story isn’t over. In fact, it may have just begun its most exciting chapter yet.
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