28 July 2023 , 02:00
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With just two weeks to go until the start of the new Premier League season, Manchester United still haven't landed the striker they desperately want.
Erik ten Hag has made his first successful additions, bringing in Mason Mount from Chelsea and Andre Onana from Inter Milan. Goalkeeper Onana made his debut in the pre-season friendly against Real Madrid, with the Spaniards scoring once in each half to claim victory.
A new frontman is the key, though, with Rasmus Hojlund looking most likely to sign. Here, Mirror Football takes a look at some of the latest lines from around Old Trafford.
Hojlund deadline
Man Utd are confident of wrapping up a deal for Rasmus Hojlund in time for the new season. United are yet to agree a fee with Atalanta for the Denmark international, but the player appears keen on the switch.
United have so far fallen short of the Italian club's £80m valuation. Talks between the two clubs have begun, though, with the Premier League side hopeful of coming to an agreement in time to use Hojlund on August 14 against Wolves.
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Atalanta, meanwhile, are thought to be close to bolstering their ranks before any sale. According to reports on the continent, they're on course to sign French frontman El Bilal Toure from Almeria.
Henderson decision
Erik ten Hag wants Dean Henderson to fight for his first team place despite the arrival of Andre Onana. Henderson has reportedly held talks with Nottingham Forest, where he spent last season on loan, over a permanent deal.
A move for the England international looked the most likely outcome, with United chasing Japanese keeper Zion Suzuki to serve as Onana's deputy. With question marks over that deal, though, Ten Hag has sent Henderson a message.
"We have a group of keepers and, as everyone else, you have to fight for your position," the Dutchman said. "I think that's normal when you're at United. And he is a good goalie, he has to fight and we have to see when he can return to team training."
Dean Henderson spent last season on loan at Nottingham Forest (Ryan Browne/REX/Shutterstock)What should Dean Henderson do next? Have your say in the comments section
Kovar deal off
Man Utd goalkeeper Matej Kovar spent last season on loan at Sparta Prague in his native Czech Republic. A permanent move appears to be off the table, though, with Sparta chief Tomas Rosicky insisting the club would not "wait forever".
“Hello Sparta. This is the day my tenure in Sparta ends,” Kovar, 23, wrote on social media. “I am very glad I could be part of the biggest club in the Czech Republic and help the team win the title after a long wait. Grateful for the opportunity to be part of such a great team and club.
“With this message I’d like to thank everyone in the club. From the club management down to the players, coaches and all Sparta employees. Even though my tenure only lasted 10 months, I already know that I can call this place home and it will always be in my heart. Although this story ends, the memories last forever.
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"Last but not least, I would like to thank the fans. I will always remember the support I felt from the first game till today. It was a ride none of us will forget. As I say goodbye to you today, I'm incredibly proud to have been one of you and helped put Sparta back where it belongs.”