Manchester United could be about to add another striker to their Harry Kane alternatives shortlist

Manchester United are determined not to make the same mistake they made last summer.

With Erik ten Hag in the hot seat and optimism finally returning to Old Trafford for the first time in years, it was oh so nearly frittered away. Like a not-so-skilful Million Pound Drop player, United put almost all their cash on the Frenkie de Jong trapdoor and watched in dismay as the notes fluttered into the ether.

The Barcelona midfielder was the new manager's top target to help accelerate his revolution and implement the football he wants to implement but De Jong did not - and still does not - want to leave Camp Nou. The stand-off lasted for weeks as United remained determined to get their man.

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It was the humiliating 4-0 defeat at Brentford in the second week of the season, which had followed an opening-day loss to Brighton, which finally spurred them into action. The ghost was finally given up on De Jong and United looked elsewhere. To their immense fortune, they looked in the best possible place as Casemiro arrived instead.

The Brazilian has brought all De Jong would have and perhaps even more as he has become the lynchpin of the side, making crucial contributions at both ends of the pitch. It all worked out in the end but it was a scramble that betrayed a lack of an actual plan and huge nativity. Casemiro could just have easily not fancied stepping down from his comfy spot at Real Madrid and then where would United be?

They got away with it last year but appear to be taking no chances this time around and have already drafted a hefty list of alternatives to their top target. Unsurprisingly, the biggest priority this coming summer will be a new