Strikers Manchester United could target in January after Sesko injury

Manchester United are set to be without Benjamin Sesko until the new year, leaving the Red Devils without a recognised centre-forward.

Sesko's spell on the sidelines leaves Manchester United light in attack, another issue during a difficult start to the season. United need another number nine and we've profiled players who could be targeted in the January transfer window.

Nicolo Tresoldi - Club Brugge

Nicolo Tresoldi's prolific start to the season has put Europe's top teams on high alert. Tresoldi hit the headlines earlier this month after scoring three hat-tricks in four weeks for club and country.

His hat-trick of hat-tricks included three goals in a 4-3 win at Inter Milan in the Champions League, with several teams considering big bids. Brugge are reluctant to lose the 22-year-old mid-season and would not entertain offers less than €50m (£42m).

Jean-Philippe Mateta - Crystal Palace

Jean-Philippe Mateta has been on Manchester United's radar for a while and would represent a readymade option to add presence to the frontline.

The Frenchman pushed to leave Palace in the summer, amid interest from clubs including Juventus, and is approaching the end of his deal.

Mateta turns 30 next summer but could represent a short-term stop-gap, until Sesko recovers from the fitness issues that have plagued him.

Igor Matanovic - Freiburg

Another name that reportedly featured on Manchester United's summer shortlist, the Croatian has picked up where he left off last season with regular goals for Freiburg.

Matanovic scored 15 goals in all competitions as Freiburg reached the Europa League final, and has netted six times in 11 games this season.

At 6ft 5in, Matanovic is an elite duel-winner and leads the Bundesliga for duels won, offensive duels won, possession won and interceptions. He also sits second for shots on target and fourth for successful dribbles, showcasing his mobility for a forward of his size.