How Manchester United's attacking options could look next season after six summer transfers

If last summer's transfer window felt as though it was important in shaping Manchester United's future, this summer's feels significant.

Erik ten Hag's appointment as manager just over a year ago saw United start to make key changes to the landscape of their squad, bringing in players with hunger and a strong winning mentality. The likes of Lisandro Martinez and Casemiro were key in sparking those changes, but the club now needs to take the level of quality within its squad to the next level.

As has been well-documented by just about everyone in recent months, Ten Hag has made signing a world-class striker his primary objective. The Reds are missing the elusive striker that every club with ambitions of being the best must have.

As revealed by the Manchester Evening News back in March, Harry Kane has been identified as Ten Hag's preferred target, but United are operating under the assumption that Tottenham Hotspur will refuse to sell the England captain this summer. Wisely, the club has drawn up a shortlist consisting of other options who are they continuing to monitor.

READ MORE: United's new owners must do three things to overthrow City

But whether it be Kane or someone else, United know they must sign a striker this summer to become the face of their forward line. They desperately lack a reliable No.9 who can deliver the goods on a regular basis.

If United can secure the services of a world-class striker this summer, Ten Hag's strongest front-three for next season will be pretty much set. Antony, less than a year on after being signed for £85.5million, is going to remain United's first choice right-winger while Marcus Rashford will keep his place on the left.

With the right centre-forward sandwiched between the two