5) Marcus Rashford
Perhaps the only player apart from Martial, Chris Smalling and David de Gea, who has done his reputation some good this season is the prodigious academy product Marcus Rashford. Thrust into the limelight by van Gaal due to injuries to other recognised players, the pugnacious 18-year old has taken his chance and how!
After scoring on his debut against Danish team FC Midtjyllland, Rashford really announced himself to global audiences with his brace against Arsenal and the winner in the Manchester derby. Although his performances of late have been timid, he is still learning and regular game time will only help his cause.
Born and brought up in Manchester, played for United’s youth teams and now playing for the seniors, he is the dream player for every Manchester United fan. But there is a big ‘if’ that comes with choosing Rashford over a proven goal scorer.
He is inexperienced, will take a while to reach the level of physicality the Premier League demands and does not invoke the same fear in opposition players that some of the other names on this list do.
Although it would be much cheaper to invest in Rashford rather than buy a striker, at the moment, it looks more likely that United will splurge the cash to bring a big name to Old Trafford.