Manchester United’s attacking problems have become harder to ignore under Michael Carrick, with the team’s disappointing start raising questions about how effectively they can turn possession into goals. Sunday’s 1-1 draw against Leeds United extended their difficult league run, leaving United with just one Premier League victory from seven matches. Bryan Mbeumo scored at Elland Road, but Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s second-half equaliser denied Carrick’s side a much-needed win.
Benjamin Šeško gives United a physical presence through the middle, while Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo offer different qualities around him. Joshua Zirkzee provides another centre-forward option, and Marcus Rashford adds pace and attacking versatility. Yet Carrick still needs his forwards to deliver consistently, particularly when opponents defend deep and leave little room around the penalty area.
United cannot solve every attacking problem by signing another striker. They need greater consistency from their existing forwards, better service into dangerous areas and a clearer understanding of how their attacking combinations should work. Any January recruitment must address a specific weakness rather than simply add another name to an already competitive forward line.
A powerful centre-forward could offer Carrick another way to break down stubborn defences, particularly when crosses and second balls become important. Finding the right player at an acceptable price will matter just as much as identifying his goalscoring record.
Man United transfer news on Dion Drena Beljo
According to Transfer Feed, Manchester United are monitoring Dinamo Zagreb striker Dion Drena Beljo ahead of the January transfer window. The report claims the Croatian club wants between £17 million and £22 million, having rejected a £17 million proposal last summer. United have not confirmed a formal bid, so the reported interest should not be treated as an agreed transfer.
The 24-year-old has reportedly recorded 13 goals and six assists in 15 appearances across club and international competitions during 2026/27, accumulating 1,218 minutes. His reported Croatian league record stands at 10 goals and three assists in seven appearances.
Beljo offers aerial strength and a natural presence inside the box. His movement can help him attack crosses, while his finishing gives him potential as a penalty-area specialist. However, limited acceleration, isolated dribbling and hold-up play under pressure remain concerns.
Would Beljo solve Manchester United’s attacking problems under Carrick?
Beljo could provide a useful alternative to Šeško, particularly against compact defences. His physical profile would give United another target for crosses and create opportunities for attacking midfielders to collect second balls. However, his weaknesses raise questions about whether he could contribute consistently against Premier League defenders who press aggressively and restrict his space.
With Šeško already leading the line and Cunha, Mbeumo and Zirkzee competing for attacking roles, United must consider playing time as carefully as transfer fees. Spending up to £22 million on another striker would make little sense unless Carrick identified a clear tactical role for him.
Beljo’s reported contract runs until 2030, strengthening Dinamo’s negotiating position. United should therefore demand convincing evidence that his finishing and movement can translate to English football before committing significant funds. His reported numbers make him worth scouting, but they don’t establish him as a necessary signing.
