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Goal counts down the top 10 female talents born on or after January 1, 2001 from all across the world

Goal/Getty composite10Linda Caicedo | Deportivo Cali

In Linda Caicedo’s first season in senior women’s football, she top-scored in Colombia’s top-flight and led America de Cali to their first-ever Championship title. 

But as her team reached the semi-finals of the Copa Liberatores, she couldn’t play – because she was too young.

The youngest player to play in Colombia’s Liga Aguila, its youngest-ever scorer and the youngest to be nominated for Player of the Year, Caicedo didn’t turn 15 until February 2020!

The Copa Libertadores rules, however, state a player must be 16 years old, which means she will be too young to play in the competition again this season – when she turns out for America’s biggest rivals, Deportivo Cali.

The controversial transfer is part of a deal that will see Caicedo, who has already made her senior Colombia debut, move to Barcelona further down the line.

“From the moment she arrived, we noticed that Linda had something different,” Rafael Murillo, president of America de Cali, said.

It’s a lot of pressure for a player so young – but she is taking everything in her stride brilliantly, continuing to justify the hype.

AdvertisementGoal/Getty composite9Yuzuki Yamamoto | NTV Beleza

With four goals to her name already, Yuzuki Yamamoto made a bold prediction ahead of the 2019 AFC Under-19 Championship final.

"I'm always searching for a goal and I will score one in the next match,” she said – and she didn’t disappoint.

As Momo Nakao went on a mazy run down the right, Yamamoto peeled away from her marker and screamed for the cut-back – slotting home to put Japan 1-0 up and on their way to victory over North Korea.

It was her fifth goal of the tournament in just her fourth game.

Asked about her ambitions, Yamamoto said: "I want to be selected for the senior national team, participate in the World Cup and be champions."

Again, her words are bold, but with her knack for goal-scoring, such hopes are certainly not unrealistic.

Goal/Getty composite8Kate Wiesner | Penn State

Penn State’s women’s soccer programme has constantly produced top talent in the United States.

Alyssa Naeher and Ali Krieger, World Cup winners in both 2015 and 2019, are just two examples – and now, they have another coming through.

"Kate Wiesner is a world-class player and she’s going to show it throughout her four years here," Erica Dambach, who has seen plenty of top talent during her 13 years as a coach at Penn State, said. “She’s going to be a big-time player in this program.”

A player who can operate as a left-back or on the left wing, Wiesner may only be 19, but she's already played at her fair share of international tournaments at youth level and even made the USWNT Under-19s roster at the age of 16, such is her ability.

Named in the Best XI after winning the CONCACAF Under-17 Championship in 2018, she certainly has the potential to be part of the USWNT’s next generation of stars – and, at Penn State, she’s in the perfect place to realise that.

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Goal/Getty composite7Gift Monday | FC Robo

When Gift Monday made her senior international bow for Nigeria in September, it marked the start of what promises to be an excellent career at the top level.

The 18-year-old was the Falconets' star player at the 2018 FIFA Under-20 World Cup, showcasing her fine dribbling abilities and power on the ball as her team reached the quarter-finals.

One year later, she scored the first goal of Nigeria’s successful African Games campaign, again proving to be a key player as they won gold at the competition for the first time in 12 years.

Coach Christopher Danjuma dubbed her contributions “outstanding” while Monday herself has spoken with maturity beyond her years throughout all their success.

A fantastic finisher and a threat in the air, the teenage forward is now getting the chances to make an impact at senior level – but, first and foremost, will be a crucial player for Nigeria Under-20s as they set their sights on qualifying for this year’s World Cup.

Barcelona came from a goal down to beat Osasuna 2-1 despite seeing Robert Lewandowski sent off in the first half.

No Lewandowski? No problem. Raphinha and Pedri stepped up to the mark as Barca – often accused of having a soft underbelly – strengthened their title credentials by overcoming adversity and picking up a vital win in one of Spain's toughest away trips.

The Catalans got off to the worst possible start, conceding after just six minutes and seeing their talismanic Pole sent off for a flying challenge on Garcia after just 31 minutes.

Substitute Gerard Pique – playing in his final ever game – also saw red at the break for his complaints to the match officials and it looked like being a long night for the Blaugrana.

But they came straight back into it after the break. Pedri fired home an equaliser just minutes into the second half before substitute Raphinha won it in the 85th minute with a flying header.

Barca now head into the World Cup break with top spot guaranteed – and that type of result will offer real belief that Xavi's side can bring the title back to the Camp Nou this season.

GettyWinners

Pedri:

Barcelona were heading for a costly defeat at El Sadar until Pedri popped up with a vital equaliser on 48 minutes. The teenager netted for the third time in La Liga this season with a low strike that beat goalkeeper Aitor Fernandez and two of his defenders on the line. The goal gave Barca belief at the start of the second half and was the foundation for the 10 men to go on and take all three points.

Raphinha:

Barcelona's winning goal came from the head of Raphinha just minutes after the Brazil international had arrived from the bench. It was a great piece of improvisation from the forward and ensured Barca take home all three points. Raphinha's found life at little tough at Barca recently, struggling for goals and dropping out of the starting XI, but this strike and the result should do him the world of good.

Barca's title hopes

Barca were able to capitalise on Real Madrid's surprise defeat to Rayo Vallecano to move five points clear at the summit. Los Blancos can cut the gap on Thursday when they take on Cadiz, but Barca know they will be top of the piile heading into the World Cup no matter what happens at the Santiago Bernabeu. Xavi's side have endured a mixed campaign so far, particularly after an early exit from the Champions League, but this result is a big boost to their hopes of winning La Liga.

AdvertisementGetty ImagesLosers

Robert Lewandowski:

Barcelona's top scorer had a night to forget after being handed his marching orders on the half-hour mark. The Poland international was booked for a poor challenge on Nacho Vidal after 11 minutes and then saw red after needlessly and purposely clattering into David Garcia. It was a crazy moment from Lewandowski and could have proved costly, particularly as Barca were already one down. The striker will now Barca's first game back after the World Cup, the small matter of a local derby against Espanyol.

Sergio Busquets:

The Barcelona captain had an awful start to the match that left the visitors a goal down and with a mountain to climb against spirited and quality opposition. Busquets gave up the corner from which Osasuna scored and also failed to mark David Garcia properly from the set-piece, allowing the midfielder to convert. The midfielder was also guilty of giving the ball away in dangerous areas, which led to another chance for Chimy Avila, and was too easily bullied off the ball. Barcelona waved goodbye to Gerard Pique last time out and, on this evidence, Busquets should not be too far behind.

Gerard Pique:

Pique was given an emotional send-off last time out on his final Camp Nou appearance, but his final ever match for the Catalan giants ended in ignominy at Osasuna. The defender was named on the bench for the game but ended up being sent-off at half-time, ensuring he had no chance of making a swansong appearance. Pique was clearly riled up at the break and walked onto the pitch to remonstrate with the match officials after seeing his team go 1-0 down and lose Lewandowski to a red card. The complaints did no good whatsoever with Pique also earning a red on the final outing of his career. To make matters worse, Xavi confirmed after the match that he would have come on if available.

GettyBarcelona Ratings: Defence

Marc-Andre ter Stegen (6/10): Was rooted to his line for the goal but tipped over a brilliant effort from Chimy Avila in the second half.

Alejandro Balde (7/10): The teenage left-back started on the right again and had his hands full against Avila. Used his pace well and saw a decent shot fly wide.

Andreas Christensen (6/10): Back in the starting XI after injury and did OK. Tired as the game went on and replaced on 75 minutes.

Marcos Alonso (6/10): Deployed at center-back and will feel he should have had a free-kick after being clattered for the opening goal.

Jordi Alba (7/10): A threat down the left and put some quality deliveries into the penalty area. Involved in the equaliser

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Sergio Busquets (3/10): Poor showing from the captain who was careless in possession, beaten easily on the ball and looked a shadow of his usual self.

Pedri (7/10): Got Barca back into the game with a low strike after good work from Jordi Alba.

Frenkie de Jong (8/10): Did a good job in midfield and ended up central defence alongside Alonso after Christensen went off. Set up Raphinha for the winner with a gorgeous ball upfield.

Roberto Martinez's side somehow managed to record a 1-0 win in their World Cup opener despite being outplayed by Canada.

Has Belgium's best chance to win a major trophy with their 'Golden Generation' passed? It would appear so.

Roberto Martinez's side actually kicked off their 2022 World Cup campaign with a win, with Michy Batshuayi scoring the only goal of their Group F clash with Canada on Wednesday night, but it was utterly undeserved.

Belgium were battered but the Canucks simply weren't clinical enough, even missing a penalty during a particularly one-sided first half.

Indeed, they had eight shots in the first 15 minutes alone but only one was on target, and that was the Alphonso Davies spot-kick saved by Thibaut Courtois.

Martinez can quite justifiably argue that winning is all that matters on matchday one, but this was a performance that has done little to shake the long-held suspicion that his team is well past its best.

Below, GOAL runs through all of Belgium's winners and losers from a dire display in Al Rayyan in which even Kevin De Bruyne – who somehow scooped the official man of the match award – looked like an imposter…

Getty ImagesThe Winners

Thibaut Courtois:

Let's face it, Davies' penalty was dreadful. However, it would be wrong to be too harsh on a 22-year-old playing in his first World Cup. It's not easy going up against Courtois at the best of times. He's an imposing figure. And he can appear unbeatable at times – he certainly was in Real Madrid's Champions League final win over Liverpool last season. So, it wasn't hugely surprising to see Courtois get the better of Davies in their early battle of wits. After all, the Belgian No.1 won the Golden Glove award at Russia 2018; he looks capable of defending the title.

Michy Batshuayi:

Michy Batshuayi did score at the 2018 World Cup, but the abiding image of his tournament was him celebrating Belgium's group-stage winner against England by attempting to smash the ball into the crowd, only to see it ricochet off the post and up into his face. Good-natured character that he is, Batshuayi saw the funny side, tweeting afterwards, "Why am I so stupid, bro?!" Happily, his 2022 World Cup campaign could prove memorable for all the right reasons. Indeed, with Romelu Lukaku struggling physically, Batshuayi could have a massive role to play at Qatar 2022, as he proved here in Doha by clinically finishing the first big chance that came his way to put his country ahead right at the end of a torrid first half for Roberto Martinez's side.

AdvertisementGetty ImagesThe Losers

Belgium's back three:

Belgium, as a team, struggled dismally to deal with Canada's energy and pace during the first half but the backline looked particularly sluggish, which is hardly surprising of course. Toby Alderweireld and Jan Vertonghen make up two-thirds of the back three and they are 33 and 35, respectively. They still have their attributes, of course – Alderweireld played a fine ball over the top for Batshuayi to break the deadlock – but their deficiencies were there for all to see in Al Rayyan.

Eden Hazard:

Eden Hazard knows he's not the player he once was. He admitted it before the tournament began. He no longer has the same pace or nimbleness with which he once terrorised defenders. Injuries have seen to that. Hazard was hopeful that in spite of his relegation to a reserve player at Real Madrid that he might be able to play at a decent level here in Qatar. However, on the evidence of his first outing, that seems unlikely. There were some flashes of the old magic; the way in which he took down one long ball over his shoulder during the first half drew gasps from the press box. Unfortunately, that was to be the highlight of an evening that was brought to a premature end by his 62nd-minute substitution.

Kevin De Bruyne:

Was that really Kevin De Bruyne out there? You know, the best midfielder in the world, that Kevin De Bruyne. Because what we saw here was a pale imitation of the player that lights up the Premier League on a regular basis. De Bruyne butchered one brilliant Belgian breakaway in the first half, played the ball straight into touch early in the second half and then suffered the ignominy of being nutmegged by Stephen Eustaquio, which drew one of the biggest cheers of the night. FIFA inexplicably named him man of the match but even De Bruyne admitted that he had got it on name recognition alone. He'll know himself that he will have to perform a hell of a lot better if he is to carry this Belgium team to the final. Every player can, of course, have a bad game, even the great ones. But if there's a deeper issue at play here, if De Bruyne is tired, or feeling the strain of having already played so many games in such a short space of time this season, then Belgium really are in big trouble.

Yannick Carrasco:

Yannick Carrasco is not everyone's idea of a quality wing-back. Yes, he's great going forward but it's fair to say that defending has never been his forte. Martinez clearly expected Belgium to do most of the attacking here, meaning Carrasco would be on the front foot most of the time. As it transpired, though, he spent most of the first half in retreat. His half-time withdrawal was, therefore, inevitable, given the Atletico Madrid man was already on a booking for giving away the early penalty with a reckless handball.

Getty ImagesBelgium Ratings: Defence

Thibaut Courtois (8/10):

Not the best penalty he's ever faced but Courtois' save from Davies' spot-kick was crucial as it came at a time when Belgium were all over the place defensively.

Leander Dendoncker (4/10):

Not as vulnerable to pace as his fellow centre-backs but was still at sixes and sevens during the first half.

Toby Alderweireld (5/10):

Used the ball well, in fairness, providing the assist for Batshuayi's winner and he did make some vital interceptions, but he was also made to look very pedestrian by Canada's attackers.

Jan Vertonghen (4/10):

A tad better in the second half but his horrific first-half showing shouldn't be forgotten.

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Getty ImagesMidfield

Timothy Castagne (6/10):

Didn't play particularly well but a far more reliable wing-back than his team-mate on the opposite flank.

Youri Tielemans (3/10):

A surprisingly poor performance from Tielemans, who appeared tired. Hooked at half-time.

Axel Witsel (5/10):

Not the worst but nowhere near his best and failed to really impose himself in the middle of the park.

Yannick Carrasco (2/10):

A total liability. Gave away the penalty but was looking like the weak link even before then. Rightly replaced at the interval.

Cristiano Ronaldo scored twice to mark a straightforward 4-0 win for Portugal in Roberto Martinez's first game in charge

A Cristiano Ronaldo brace, as well as goals from Joao Cancelo and Bernardo Silva, gave Portugal an easy win over Liechtenstein to open Euro 2024 qualifying.

Portugal took the lead inside 10 minutes, with Joao Cancelo's deflected strike wrong-footing Benjamin Buchel to mark the first goal of Roberto Martinez's Portugal tenure.

They grabbed a second shortly after the half, Bernardo Silva lashing a shot through a crowd of bodies and past a helpless Buchel. Ronaldo provided the third, tucking a penalty into the bottom corner after Joao Cancelo was tripped inside the box.

The captain added the fourth after an hour, blasting a free-kick off Buchel's palms and into the top corner, to round off a near-perfect start to his side's qualifying campaign.

GOAL rates Portugal's players from Estadio Jose Alvalade…

GettyGoalkeeper & Defence

Rui Patricio (6/10):

Faced two shots all evening. Clean sheet.

Joao Cancelo (9/10):

Scored the opener with a deflected strike from outside the box. Won a penalty for the second, completed the most dribbles in the match. An attacking clinic from a right-back with a point to prove.

Danilo Pereira (6/10):

Translated some of his solid centre-back play from PSG into the national team.

Ruben Dias (7/10):

Completed the most passes in the match, made some lovely runs forward.

Goncalo Inacio (6/10):

A good outing with very few defensive responsibilities for the 21-year-old.

Raphael Guerreiro (6/10):

Lively down the left, argued with Ronaldo about his forward runs once or twice.

AdvertisementGettyMidfield

Bruno Fernandes (8/10):

Blasted one wide after a lovely piece of skill. Created seven chances, looked to get forward, was Portugal's liveliest option in the first half.

Joao Palhinha (7/10):

Kept the ball moving, offered some solidity, but Portugal didn't need a defensive midfielder here.

Bernardo Silva (7/10):

Scored the second, lashing one through a crowd of bodies to give Portugal a comfortable lead. Was otherwise limited creatively.

GettyAttack

Joao Felix (7/10):

Given plenty of room to operate, but didn't always provide the final pass. A delight to watch on the ball, though.

Cristiano Ronaldo (9/10):

Scored twice, and could have added a third on the night when he became the most capped player in international football history. Is now the only men's footballer to score 100 competitive international goals. Vintage Cristiano.

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GettySubs & Manager

Ruben Neves (7/10):

Made his case for a consistent spot with a fine 25 minutes.

Rafael Leao (6/10):

Almost scored a spectacular overhead kick.

Vitinha (6/10):

Kept it simple.

Goncalo Ramos (N/A):

Replaced Ronaldo with 15 minutes remaining. Barely touched the ball.

Joao Mario (N/A):

A puzzling late introduction.

Roberto Martinez (9/10):

Went with a back five in his managerial debut, and Portugal played some good stuff. Can't complain after running out 4-0 winners, but might face some critics for setting up so defensively against an inferior opponent.

After a difficult week, the Spanish goalkeeper was back to his best at Wembley as Erik ten Hag's side won on penalties after a 0-0 draw

David de Gea went to Wembley with his reputation on the floor and his Manchester United future hanging in the balance after a nightmarish performance against Sevilla.

But he came out swinging and was the Red Devils' hero as they edged out a tense and tight FA Cup semi-final with Brighton on penalties after a 0-0 draw.

It was a nerve-shredding penalty shootout and the only player to miss was Solly March, who sent his spot-kick into the stands.

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De Gea may not have saved a penalty in the shootout, but did enough to put March off before Victor Lindelof buried the next kick to set up a blockbuster FA Cup final against Manchester City.

Over 120 minutes, though, De Gea made a series of outstanding saves to keep an impressive Brighton at bay.

United had their moments too, with Bruno Fernandes creating plenty of danger and Antony stretching Brighton but making a lot of bad decisions with his final pass or shot.

GOAL rates United's players from Wembley…

Getty ImagesGoalkeeper & Defence

David de Gea (9/10):

Back to what he does best after the trauma of Sevilla. Pushed away Mac Allister's fizzing free-kick and Enciso's scorching drive, caught March's low effort and beat Mitoma to the ball with his foot.

Aaron Wan-Bissaka (8/10):

Showed brilliant anticipation throughout, making perfectly-timed tackles and keeping his head when Brighton were swarming over United either side of half-time.

Victor Lindelof (7/10):

Quietly did a fine job, keeping the ball well and making important blocks and tackles. Booked in extra-time before netting the winning penalty.

Luke Shaw (7/10):

Very strong again as an emergency centre-back and much better than Maguire.

Diogo Dalot (6/10):

Pretty good in defence and very calm under pressure although nearly got Casemiro into trouble with a sloppy pass, saved by Shaw making a tactical foul. More cautious in attack.

AdvertisementGetty ImagesMidfield

Christian Eriksen (6/10):

Made some good passes to start attacks but missed a big chance before half-time with a mis-kick. Ran out of breath in the second half and was the first to come off.

Casemiro (5/10):

Picked up a booking for clumsy foul on Mac Allister. Not very strong in tackles and nearly ran into trouble with his passing but made an important header off the line.

Bruno Fernandes (8/10):

United's best outfield player. Had three strong attempts on goal and unlucky not to score. Worked hard defensively and after being taken off in extra-time was seen barking orders from the sidelines.

Getty ImagesAttack

Antony (6/10):

Lively and gave Brighton's defence lots to think about, but his decision-making was very poor.

Anthony Martial (5/10):

Looked really off the pace. Bunged an attempted chip on Sanchez and his passing was poor.

Marcus Rashford (6/10):

Struggled to get into the game but got better as it went on and a fine Sanchez save denied him the winner. Flashed a shot past the post in extra-time.

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Getty ImagesSubs & Manager

Fred (6/10):

Focused mostly on defensive duties when replacing Eriksen. Should have done better with a cross to Weghorst in extra-time.

Jadon Sancho (6/10):

Had a few good moments, such as his cross for Sabitzer.

Marcel Sabitzer (5/10):

Sent glancing header wide early in extra-time. Did little else and made awful cross with dangerous late free-kick.

Wout Weghorst (6/10):

Worked hard and his energy helped push Brighton back in extra-time. As usual, created no danger.

Tyrell Malacia (6/10):

Defended well at right-back in extra-time, winning important tackles.

Erik ten Hag (8/10):

Managed to pick the team up from the floor after the humiliation in Seville and got his selection and changes spot-on. Took a pragmatic approach by allowing Brighton the ball and it paid off

How to watch Gent against West Ham in the Europa Conference League quarter-final in the UK, US, and India, as well as kick-off time and team news.

Gent and West Ham will meet for the first leg of the Europa Conference League quarter-final at the Ghelamco Arena on Thursday.

Watch Gent vs West Ham live on BT Sport!Watch Gent vs West Ham live on Paramount+!

West Ham have only lost one out of their last six matches in all competitions. David Moyes' team will be high in confidence, following their 6-0 aggregate win over Larnaca in the previous round of the Europa Conference League.

The hosts are unbeaten in seven matches in all competitions and their last defeat at home came against current Belgian league leaders Genk back in February 5. They will be confident of getting a good result against the Premier League opponents at the Arena.

GOAL brings you details on how to watch the game on TV in the U.S., UK and India as well as how to stream live online.

Getty ImagesKick-off timeGame:Gent vs West HamDate:April 13, 2023Kick-off:12.45pm EDT, 5.45pm BST, 10:15pm ISTVenue:Ghelamco Arena

The Europa Conference League game between Gent and West Ham United is scheduled for April 13, 2023, at the Ghelamco Arena in Belgium.

It will kick off at 12.45pm EDT in the US, 5.45pm BST in the UK, and 10:15pm in India.

AdvertisementGetty ImagesHow to watch Gent vs West Ham online – TV channels & live streamsTV channels & streaming options

Country TV channel Live stream

U.S.N/AParamount+UKBT Sport 2BT app/websiteIndiaSony Ten 5 SD/HDSony LIV

In the United States (US), the game can be watched live on Paramount+.

Fans in the United Kingdom (UK) can watch the game on BT Sport 2, with streaming options available on their app and website.

In India, the game will be available to watch on Sony Sports Network.

Getty ImagesTeam news & squadsGent team news

It will be interesting to see the guardian of the goal for Gent in this upcoming fixture, as second-choice keeper Davy Roef has been preferred over their number one Paul Nardi in Cup competitions so far.

Boss Vanhaezebrouck has no fresh injury concerns to deal with ahead the crucial clash against West Ham. He will hope to get a home advantage in the first leg, with club and league top scorer Hugo Cuypers (19 goals) leading the line.

Gent possible XI: Roef; Castro-Montes, Ngadeu, Torunarigha; Samoise, Kums, Hong, Odjidja-Ofoe, Fofana; Orban, Cuypers

Position Players

GoalkeepersNardi, RoefDefendersOkumu, Piatkowski, Torunarigha, Fortuna, Godeu, Agbor, Van DaeleMidfieldersHong, Odjidja-Ofoe, De Ridder, De Sart, Castro-Montes, Hjulsager, Samoise, Marreh, KumsForwardsLemajic, Hauge, Cuypers, Fofana, Orban Depoitre, TissoudaliWest Ham team news

David Moyes has confirmed that Brazilian international midfielder Lucas Paqueta is part of the West Ham squad that has travelled for the Europa Conference League quarter-final first leg against Gent. Although he missed their last Premier League match due to an ankle knock, the player has trained throughout the week and will be available for selection.

The team has an otherwise full squad to choose from, except for Gianluca Scamacca, who is recovering from a knee problem. Flynn Downes is set to return from a European suspension and 18-year-old prospect Divin Mubama, who has 26 goals in 31 appearances across all competitions this season, the majority coming for West Ham's youth team, has also made the trip.

West Ham possible XI: Areola; Coufal, Zouma, Ogbonna, Palmieri; Bowen, Soucek, Rice, Fornals; Ings, Antonio

Position Players

GoalkeepersAreola, FabianskiDefendersZouma, Aguerd, Kehrer, Ogbonna, Emerson, Cresswell, Johnson, CoufalMidfieldersRice, Soucek, Downes, Paqueta, Fornals, Laznini, Benrahma, CornetForwardsIngs, Antonio, Bowen, MubamaENJOYED THIS STORY?

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Getty ImagesUseful links

Europa Conference League home page

Live football on TV in the UK

Live soccer on TV in the U.S.

West Ham team page

Erik ten Hag wants to add a No.9, but has limited funds after signing Mason Mount, with the only solution to cash in on a number of his squad players

Manchester United's need for a striker could not have been more obvious as they stumbled through the final few weeks of last season. As it became increasingly clear Wout Weghorst was incapable of scoring, Erik ten Hag's side had to rely on a worn-out Marcus Rashford and a half-fit Anthony Martial to get them over the line in their bid for Champions League qualification.

Ten Hag made his feelings clear about the need for a striker but, one month after the season came to an end, the only new player to have arrived at Old Trafford is midfielder Mason Mount, burning a £60 million ($76m) hole in an already tight budget. The Red Devils have a maximum of £120m ($153m) to spend this summer due to the Premier League's Profitability and Sustainability rules, and they also need to sign a goalkeeper after doing a U-turn on a new contract for David de Gea.

It could take around £50 million ($63m) to get No.1 'keeper target Andre Onana from Inter, which would mean maxing out the budget with no new striker to show for it. But there is a way out of United's spending dilemma, and that is to sell players.

The club have been notoriously imprudent when it comes to selling players, pocketing a mere £133m ($170m) since 2013, the lowest of their fellow Premier League 'Big Six' teams and in stark contrast to Chelsea, who have earned £706m ($901m) from sales in the same period.

But United have plenty of players they can make money from, and selling them wisely is key to regenerating Ten Hag's squad. GOAL takes a look at who they can sell and for how much…

Getty ImagesJadon Sancho (£50m)

Sancho has fallen way short of what was expected from him after his £73m move from Borussia Dortmund. In two seasons and 79 appearances, he has contributed just 12 goals and six assists. It is a remarkable drop off from his time in Germany, when he scored 50 goals and provided 64 assists in 137 matches.

His second season at Old Trafford was no easier than his first, and despite making a good start by scoring against Liverpool, his confidence faded and Ten Hag removed him from the squad for over two months to work on his fitness and confidence.

There were some flashes of the Sancho who Dortmund fans knew and loved, but tangible, important contributions were few and far between. United know they will make a loss on Sancho if they do sell him, and if an offer in the region of £50m arrives they will surely bite.

AdvertisementGetty ImagesHarry Maguire (£40m)

Maguire played in fewer than half of United's league games last season, making only eight starts. And when he did play, he oftenstruggled badly.His stock has fallen so much that he has fallen to fifth-choice centre-back,even dropping behind left-back Luke Shawin the pecking order.

He is ill-equipped for the type of football Ten Hag wants United to play, but his career at the top level is by no means over. He remains first-choice for England despite everything that has happened this season, and he would have plenty of takers from mid-level clubs in the Premier League.

United will have to swallow their pride and admit they made a mistake making Maguire the most expensive defender in the world in 2019. But if they can make back even half of that fee then they should take it, especially as he has two years left on his contract.

Getty ImagesScott McTominay (£35m)

McTominay saw his playing time severely squeezed by the arrivals of Christian Eriksen and Casemiro, starting only 10 league games in 2022-23. And just when he was starting to get back in contention for a starting berth in April, he got injured. The arrival of Mount, even if not a like-for-like replacement, has seen him drop yet further down the pecking order.

But the Scotland midfielder has been in sensational form for his country, scoring five goals in his last four international appearances. He is still a player in demand and, at 26, has a fine career ahead of him.

Even though it would hurt to let one of their own go, a fee of between £30m and £40m would likely be enough to persuade United to part with McTominay.

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Getty ImagesAnthony Martial (£15m)

Since returning from a disappointing loan spell at Sevilla, Martial has proved two things most United fans already knew. Firstly, that he remains a quality player on his day, scoring six Premier League goals from only 11 starts. But secondly, that he is incapable of staying fit for long periods.

The Frenchman, who United paid £50m for in 2015, suffered five injuries last season, missing a total of 27 matches and never once completing 90 minutes. His frail fitness means that he is not much use as a back-up striker, and he missed the FA Cup final after suffering a hamstring injury in the final league game of the season.

Although it has been reported the club are looking for £25m for Martial, his long-running injury problems and the fact he only has one year left on his contract means his sell-on value is fading fast. An offer of £15m should be enough to convince the club to sell.

Spurs chairman Daniel Levy has reportedly been instructed to issue the forward with a contract ultimatum, which could open the door for the Red Devils

Tottenham have a huge decision to make on the future of their most prized asset. Harry Kane has now entered the final year of his contract, and Europe's biggest clubs have sensed an opportunity.

Bayern Munich have pulled ahead in the race for Kane's signature after reaching an agreement in principle to sign the 29-year-old, but they have seen two formal bids rejected – the second of which came in at £70 million ($90m). The German champions are expected to try again, but it remains to be seen whether they will meet Spurs chairman Daniel Levy's £100m ($128m) valuation.

France is also a viable destination for Kane, as Paris Saint-Germain have reportedly identified him as a potential replacement for Kylian Mbappe – who looks destined to leave the club after being left out of their pre-season tour of Japan. But there is also still a chance that Kane will remain in the Premier League.

According to , Spurs owner Joe Lewis has told Levy that he must sanction Kane's departure if the striker does not commit to a new contract, which should alert Manchester United. Erik ten Hag put Kane at the top of his list of targets at the start of the summer window, only for Levy to effectively rule out selling to a Premier League rival.

But if United now swoop in with an attractive proposal, the famously stubborn Spurs chairman will have no choice but to consider it. And there is every chance that Kane could be persuaded to prioritise a move to Old Trafford over the Allianz Arena or Parc des Princes.

Kane has his sights set on Alan Shearer's all-time Premier League scoring record, and he could surge past it in a United shirt. The Red Devils have the most to offer the England international at this crucial juncture in his career – it's just a case of whether they will do what is necessary to secure his signature.

GettyThe ulitmate No.9

"It's in our power to get the right man in. We know our targets. We do everything we can, every effort we put in to get this done. It's an area where we need improvement."

Ten Hag confirmed United's determination to bring in a new No.9 in a press conference last week, before seeing his team pick up a 2-0 friendly win over Arsenal in New Jersey. The Red Devils have a 100 percent record so far in pre-season, but their lack of clinical edge remains apparent.

"You have to score, you have to net. That was already our problem last year and we have to realise that, we have to be more ruthless and clinical in those situations," the Dutchman said after United's unconvincing 1-0 victory against Lyon on July 19.

The answer is standing right in front of them. It's a no-brainer for United to go all out for Kane – who has been unquestionably the most consistent centre-forward in the Premier League for the best part of a decade.

"Harry Kane would be the ideal player, for me, to go and join Manchester United," club legend Wayne Rooney said in a recent interview with "If Manchester United have Harry Kane, then that gives their chances of going to win, and compete, a lot easier."

Marcus Rashford hit 30 goals for United last season, and was rewarded with a new long-term contract, but he is quite clearly not the answer to the club's No.9 conundrum. He would cause more damage with a proper target man to link up with from the left – and who better than his England team-mate Kane.

The Tottenham talisman is one of the last remaining old-school central strikers in the modern game, and arguably the best. Kane can score from any angle with both feet, he's strong in the air and boasts an exceptional passing range that puts most midfielders to shame.

He's equally as comfortable with his back-to-goal as he is facing it, which makes him the perfect fit for United. Ten Hag needs a prolific marksman who will also improve the team's general build-up play, and Kane ticks all the boxes.

Advertisement(C)Getty ImagesPerfect excuse to offload more deadwood

United have already spent over £100m to bring in Mason Mount from Chelsea and Andre Onana from Inter, which leaves them with very little left in the transfer pot. It has been reported that the Red Devils' budget has been restricted by a Financial Fair Play cap, meaning they will have to sell some first-team stars in order to sign any more new players.

Alex Telles completed a £6m move to Cristiano Ronaldo's Al-Nassr after Zidane Iqbal was sold to Utrecht for just £850,000, while the departures of David de Gea, Axel Tuanzebe and Phil Jones have helped to reduce United's overall salary bill. Ten Hag could settle for the squad he has, but it makes sense to clear out some more deadwood and free up funds for Kane.

United could listen to offers for at least 11 other players, including deposed captain Harry Maguire and Jadon Sancho. There appears to be no reason for Maguire to stick around after losing the armband to Bruno Fernandes, and he is attracting interest from West Ham and Aston Villa.

Sancho, meanwhile, has seen questions asked over his future after two underwhelming seasons at Old Trafford. United won't recoup the full £73m ($94m) they paid Borussia Dortmund for the winger in 2021, but the 23-year-old should still command a significant fee.

The likes of Anthony Martial, Donny van de Beek and Fred are also being linked with moves away, having fallen further down the squad pecking order since Ten Hag's appointment as manager, and the Dutch tactician should not hesitate to let them go.

United can afford to sacrifice a bit of depth if it means securing Kane's signature, and in the long run, they will be far better off. There are certain members of the current squad that simply do not offer enough to the collective cause.

Getty ImagesUnited won't catch City with Hojlund

Since stepping back from Kane, United have been working on a potential deal for Atalanta's Rasmus Hojlund, who enjoyed a breakout 2022-23 season at the Gewiss Stadium. The 20-year-old has been dubbed the 'Danish Erling Haaland' in some circles, which has helped to highlight his impressive talents – but also painted an inaccurate picture.

United have agreed personal terms with Hojlund, who netted a modest total of 10 goals in Serie A last season. Atalanta coach Gian Piero Gasperini has backed Hojlund to become one of the "strongest strikers in the world", but has also expressed his belief that he would be better off continuing his development in Bergamo at this stage of his fledgling career.

"I don’t know if he’s leaving, the market is unpredictable. I hope for the club they €80, 90, 100 million. The market value changes," Gasperini added when quizzed on Hojlund earlier this month. Spending that much on a player so obviously lacking experience at the highest level would be a huge gamble from United. Hojlund wouldn't strike fear into Premier League defences like Kane.

Realistically, the Atalanta star may not even be a guaranteed starter for United, at least not to begin with. He would need time to adapt to the demands of English football and to learn how to function in Ten Hag's system. There would be no repeat of Haaland's record-breaking debut season at Manchester City. And United won't have much hope of closing the sizeable gap on their treble-winning arch-rivals with Hojlund leading the line.

But Kane could have that impact. He scored 30 goals for Tottenham in 2022-23, despite their failure to finish in the top seven – which underlines just how good he is. He's been carrying Spurs for years, but at United, he would have the chance to reach an even higher level and fulfil his silverware ambitions. Hojlund cannot measure up in terms of his potential as a transformative signing.

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Getty/GOALMove abroad doesn't have same appeal

According to German outlet , Kane's wife has been spotted looking at houses in Bavaria as Bayern prepare to launch their third bid for the Spurs star. The couple are expecting their fourth child and have a settled family life in England, which means they won't take the decision to up sticks and head abroad lightly.

And even though Kane appears to have given the green light to join Bayern, it would still be a huge surprise if the transfer goes through. The England captain was also touted for a move away from his native country in 2021, when Real Madrid emerged as suitors. But Kane shut those rumours down in an interview with Gary Neville, saying: "Of course, there's always the option of maybe moving abroad one day but I don't think that really interests me in the near future."

At the time, Kane instead chose to push for a switch to Manchester City, only for Levy's demands to put off Pep Guardiola's side. Kane won't turn his back on the Premier League unless he has no other choice.

At the moment, Bayern are in the clear to sign him, but United can change the whole picture of the saga if they reignite their pursuit. Kane will be well aware that he is currently playing in the best league in the world and the Red Devils are on their way back to the top of it.

He'd be almost guaranteed a first major trophy at Bayern in the form of the Bundesliga, and Thomas Tuchel's side could genuinely compete for the Champions League with Kane upfront. But motivation levels are harder to sustain when everything comes easy, as the man he'd essentially be replacing at Allianz Arena learned the hard way.

Before forcing a £50m ($64m) transfer to Barcelona last summer, Robert Lewandowski said: "Something has died in me, I want to leave Bayern for more emotions in my life." Lewandowski scored 40 or more goals in each of his seven seasons at Bayern, but felt empty by the end of his time at the club.

United have the ability to offer Kane a challenge that Bayern, and indeed PSG, simply cannot. He could become the greatest Premier League striker ever at Old Trafford, and his legacy wouldn't be improved in the same way by successful spells in Germany or France.

USMNT star Christian Pulisic hopes that his career path will lead him to MLS at some point and has revealed when such a move could be made.

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Left his homeland at 15 years of ageStarred in Germany, England & ItalyLong-term plan is to return to his rootsWHAT HAPPENED?

For now, the United States international is very much focused on life in Europe. Having previously been on the books at Borussia Dortmund and Chelsea, the 24-year-old forward is currently turning out for Serie A giants AC Milan.

AdvertisementGettyWHAT THEY SAID

Pulisic still has plenty to achieve outside of his homeland, having made an impressive start to his time in Italy, but admits that he wants to return to his roots before hanging up his boots. He has told Tim Ream’s podcast when asked if he would like to grace MLS: “Absolutely, I’d love to. Not in the, you know, near-near future for sure, but yeah, I absolutely would love to. Towards the end of my career, I’d love to.”

THE BIGGER PICTURE

Pulisic has helped to raise the profile of American soccer, as one of the most prominent figures in the U.S. camp, while the likes of Lionel Messi – who is now at Inter Miami – are doing likewise at present in MLS. Pulisic added on accelerating that growth, with the States preparing to fill hosting duties at the 2024 Copa America and 2026 World Cup: “I want to grow the sport in this country more than anyone, it’s super important to me. I think I’ve seen, just coming back in the last however long my career has been, how much the game has grown. It’s awesome to see. If I can be a small part in that, and hopefully — like I said, towards the end of my career — come back and build a little bit more excitement around the game and have our best American players playing in MLS, I think it’s gonna help a lot.”

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GettyWHAT HAPPENS NEXT?

Pulisic moved to Dortmund when just 15 years of age. He made 127 appearances for the Bundesliga giants before making history as a Champions League winner at Chelsea. A €22 million (£19m/$24m) transfer took him to Milan in July 2023.

David Beckham has revealed how “humble” Lionel Messi has left Florida natives “shocked” since completing his stunning move to Inter Miami.

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Argentine superstar in the United StatesMade an impact on and off the fieldEngland legend impressedWHAT HAPPENED?

The seven-time Ballon d’Or winner took the bold decision to walk away from European football and go chasing the American dream when reaching the end of his contract at Paris Saint-Germain. He has committed to an initial two-and-a-half-year deal in the United States, with his family settling quickly in new surroundings.

AdvertisementGettyWHAT THEY SAID

Messi has – when clear of injury – make an immediate impact on the pitch, but has also impressed with his behaviour away from the field. Inter Miami co-owner Beckham has told the Stick to Football podcast, brought to you by : “He is so humble. It's just the normal things that we all think ‘that's how it should be’. This is someone that, especially in Miami, he's not left alone. He's chased everywhere, he’s followed everywhere, there's thousands of people every single day at the training ground just to watch him get in his car and drive down the road. From the moment he arrived in Miami, he drives himself to the supermarket, does his shopping, goes home – and people are shocked at that, but that is him. He’s humble, he's hard working, he's got a great family. His wife is amazing, the kids are amazing – he's just a normal guy with an unbelievable talent.”

THE BIGGER PICTURE

Messi inspired Inter Miami to Leagues Cup glory and the U.S. Open Cup final within weeks of his arrival, with Beckham adding on what makes the mercurial Argentine so special: “To bring someone like him to the club, we knew it would change the club and we knew it would change the league and the sport – but it's beyond that. What he does on the pitch, what he does off the pitch, for the young kids – to bring somebody in like him is the dream, also Jordi Alba and Sergio Busquets. To bring in Leo has changed everything. The academy kids have someone to look up to, who has done everything, won everything, and he's teaching them, which is amazing.”

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Getty ImagesWHAT HAPPENS NEXT?

Messi has sat out Inter Miami’s last four games through injury and, with results taking a turn for the worse, there is a chance that he will miss out on a shot at more major silverware in the MLS play-offs – although he has been nominated for the Most Valuable Player and Newcomer of the Year awards in Major League Soccer.