Erik ten Hag can fix Manchester United striker problem for free in the summer

Real value can be found in the Bosman transfer market and Manchester United know that all too well.

The signing of Christian Eriksen is looking like the coup of the summer already, with the classy midfielder bringing a degree of technical proficiency United haven't enjoyed in the middle of the park for years. It's a wonder there wasn't stiffer competition for his signature, but it has certainly worked out well for Erik ten Hag.

Getting such a quality player for free was a real boost to United's transfer window as, with their budget being stretched so thin to improve other positions, they may have struggled if they had to stump up the cash for a player as good as Eriksen. As things stand, a lot of quality players could be out of contract next summer so United would do well to keep their eyes peeled for another bargain.

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Striker is a position that United will certainly need to improve next summer, with two new additions perhaps being ideal. United are extremely low on attacking options and it's only the resurgence of Marcus Rashford that has prevented a bit of a crisis this season. Anthony Martial looked prime to lead the line but has struggled with injuries and hardly played. The only other option, Cristiano Ronaldo, doesn't suit Ten Hag's style and wants to leave anyway.

The Portuguese's contract expires at the end of the season and, although United hold the option to extend it by a year, he may be allowed to leave if he isn't in the manager's plans. Should he depart, that would leave Ten Hag with just two senior striker options, both of whom have struggled with form and fitness in recent times.

The need for new additions couldn't be clearer.