Manchester United: 3 top strikers the club should target this summer

Manchester United should have realised something was wrong in their attack as midfielder Paul Pogba, who has suffered various dips in form along the way, was their top goalscorer this season.

Their defensive deficiencies have been highlighted on numerous occasions, though the United faithful certainly also have taken note that their side scored just two goals in their last six matches of the 2018/19 campaign. Romelu Lukaku, despite flashes of his quality, has been unable to prove his worth while Marcus Rashford has struggled to live up to his lofty potential.

Jose Mourinho often deployed him on the wings before the young Englishman regularly took Lukaku's centre-forward role instead, where he's more comfortable. With just nine goals in 27 appearances there, his tally is considerably lower than the likes of Bournemouth's Callum Wilson and Brighton forward Glenn Murray - both teams who find themselves outside the top ten.

Naturally, it seems like it's time for United to look for a top striker to improve their quality in the final third, not least given the doubt over some players' futures under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer. Without further ado, here's a look at three top strikers they could target this summer:

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#3 Paulo Dybala (Juventus)

Dybala in action during Juventus' recent defeat by Roma in Serie A

Both manager Massimiliano Allegri and sporting director Fabio Paratici have tried to cool speculation surrounding the Argentinian superstar, reaffirming their belief that the former Palermo forward will remain at Juventus. However, it is clear that Paulo Dybala has endured frustrating times following Cristiano Ronaldo's arrival in Turin.

The 25-year-old has seen a considerable decline in his productivity across the final third - as he was only involved in nine league goals (six goals, three assists) this season, compared with 27 last term. Nevertheless, his high-standing reputation as one of the world's most talented forwards remains intact and Ronaldo's presence often forces him out wide in more of a reduced creative role, which is a large reason for his huge drop-off.

An agile, lethal striker blessed with great vision and excellent close-control, Dybala has drawn comparisons to compatriot Lionel Messi while being heavily linked with a big-money departure from Juve in recent seasons. He certainly has what it takes to steal the spotlight in the Premier League, but it remains a case of whether he's prepared for the risk and a side, in this case United, are prepared to give him the starring role his quality deserves.

#2 Antoine Griezmann (Atletico Madrid)

Griezmann during Atletico's recent home win over Sevilla, his last home outing with Atleti

The World Cup-winning forward has finally said goodbye to Atletico Madrid, not long after extending his existing deal with the Spanish giants. Numerous reports have suggested Barcelona are the most likely destination for the Frenchman given his release clause, but he's yet to sign nor agree a deal with any club as of yet.

So with that in mind, United could jump on the opportunity to snatch him - albeit at a premium. A complete forward with no real weaknesses in his game, Antoine Griezmann would prove more than enough for the Red Devils to replace Lukaku up-front. The 28-year-old is a proven striker at the top level and despite questions over whether he'd settle in English football, he's certainly good enough to ease quickly and prove those critics wrong once more.

Having won several honours including the aforementioned World Cup and UEFA Europa League, his winning mentality and big-game experience could boost United in their attempts to close the gap on Manchester City and Liverpool next season. With experience playing alongside both Anthony Martial and Pogba for France, his arrival would send shockwaves across the league while potentially securing the latter's long-term future, given their close friendship.

#1 Edinson Cavani (PSG)

Cavani, pictured here during PSG's win over Red Star Belgrade, has been somewhat of a forgotten man

Edinson Cavani is comfortably the most surprisingly player linked with a United move in recent months, having endured a tough campaign through a long-term injury. With his existing deal in Paris set to expire next summer, Thomas Tuchel's increasing faith in Kylian Mbappe leading the line has left the Uruguayan with plenty to ponder as he reaches the latter stages of his professional career.

Despite his experience and undeniable goalscoring abilities, PSG would potentially be open to offers for the 32-year-old. Nonetheless, many still consider Cavani as one of the world's best in his position - the striker role is one that cannot be taken for granted, as United themselves should know by now.

A deadly striker capable of scoring in various ways, as well as offering an aerial threat and invaluable experience, his arrival would prove an instant boost to United's productivity.

Although he wouldn't prove a long-term solution, Cavani's presence could turn out to be a short-term masterstroke for a side looking to return to former glories while challenging for silverware next season and beyond.