Leverkusen Star Striker Emerges as Key Man Utd Target | OneFootball

Patrik Schick on Man Utd Radar as Striker Search Intensifies

Manchester United are closely monitoring Bayer Leverkusen’s in-form striker Patrik Schick, with the Czech international emerging as a serious target ahead of a pivotal summer transfer window.

Following another turbulent campaign at Old Trafford, senior figures within the club are exploring multiple avenues to resolve their persistent attacking shortcomings. With just 38 points from 32 matches and languishing 14th in the Premier League table, the 2024/25 season is statistically United’s worst in the modern era – even six straight wins wouldn’t surpass their previous low of 58 points.

United’s Striker Dilemma

The Red Devils have struggled for firepower under both Erik ten Hag and current boss Ruben Amorim. Bruno Fernandes leads the scoring charts in the league with a modest eight goals – a figure that starkly highlights the club’s inefficiency in front of goal.

Rasmus Højlund and Joshua Zirkzee were brought in to usher a new era of attacking talent. However, both have endured inconsistent form and now face uncertain futures, with rumours swirling around potential returns to Serie A.

As such, a recalibration of United’s forward line is firmly underway. While younger names like Liam Delap continue to attract attention, there is growing interest in securing a more experienced option who can deliver immediate results. Patrik Schick, who has netted 17 goals in 26 Bundesliga appearances this term, is firmly in the frame.

Schick’s Profile Appeals to Old Trafford Hierarchy

Schick’s reputation soared after netting five goals at Euro 2020, and his form this season under Xabi Alonso has further enhanced his appeal. His all-round game – blending physical presence, aerial dominance, and a natural eye for goal – ticks several boxes for a United side sorely lacking a reliable striker.

The 29-year-old, valued at £25 million by Leverkusen, is said to be open to a Premier League move. Contact has reportedly been made, though it’s understood that Leverkusen will only consider offers that meet their valuation. Despite interest from Saudi Arabia, sources indicate Schick is keen to test himself in England.

With two years remaining on his current contract, the Bundesliga champions hold a relatively strong negotiating position. However, United are believed to view the Czech forward as a cost-effective and low-risk option – especially compared to high-priced alternatives like Victor Osimhen or Viktor Gyökeres.

Short-Term Solution with Long-Term Value

Though United remain interested in moulding younger talent, there is recognition that immediate reinforcement is essential to avoid another dismal campaign. Schick, with 77 goals in 163 appearances for Leverkusen across all competitions, represents a rare blend of maturity and consistent output.

United’s recruitment team are well aware that such reliability is not easily found, particularly in the current market. The prospect of pairing Schick with Fernandes or integrating him alongside a developing striker like Delap has been mooted internally, as United attempt to strike a balance between present needs and future planning.

“Contact over a deal for the 29-year-old, who saw his stock rise significantly after scoring five goals at the delayed Euro 2020, is thought to have been made, though Leverkusen will only entertain offers in the region of £25m.”

For now, the forward remains fully focused on delivering silverware with Leverkusen, but with his ambition to play in England clearly signposted, movement on this front could accelerate swiftly once the season concludes.