Man Utd must break transfer record to sign top striker target

28 Sept 2026 20:04 BST |
2 min read

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Manchester United must make Brian Brobbey the most expensive Dutch striker in history if they want to bring him to Old Trafford next year.

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The Sunderland centre forward has emerged as a key target for Michael Carrick’s side in recent days and it’s understood they will pursue a deal in 2027 as they look to land a replacement for his compatriot Joshua Zirkzee.

Zirkzee, 25, was heavily linked with a Man Utd exit throughout the summer transfer window, but the Red Devils were unable to find a suitor and he ultimately remained at the club despite their desire to finalise a sale.

However, the former Bologna star is expected to leave Old Trafford next year and the 13-time Premier League champions have earmarked Brobbey as a possible replacement following his immense form since his arrival at Sunderland.

The Dutchman has netted 10 goals in 38 games for Regis Le Bris’ side, although his game is about far more than simply putting the ball in the back of the net. Brobbey arguably has the best hold-up play of any striker in European football, he is a nightmare to play against and Man Utd officials believe he would be an excellent addition to Michael Carrick’s first-team squad.

To sign him, however, Man Utd will need to make him the most expensive Netherlands striker in history – a record currently held by the aforementioned Zirkzee, who moved to Old Trafford for €42.5m in 2024.

Brian Brobbey asking price revealed

Sunderland have no interest in allowing Brobbey to leave the club next year and they have set their minimum asking price at €58m (£50m), according to transfer reporter Dean Jones.

In addition to Man Utd, it’s reported that Aston Villa, Atletico Madrid, Bayern Munich, Chelsea, Juventus and Tottenham Hotspur were all interested in the 24-year-old this summer, and his hat-trick versus Manchester City ahead of the September international break has kickstarted transfer rumours before the winter window.

Man Utd are understood to be scouting the striker market as they look to replace Zirkzee, but while Brobbey is considered to be among their top targets, Sunderland are under no financial pressure to sell and it will therefore take a hefty fee to finalise a deal for the Netherlands star.