For the Manchester United fans here in the Transfer Tavern, things haven’t worked out as planned this season. Indeed, after yet another massive summer spend, Jose Mourinho and his men are out of the League Cup and 15 points behind Manchester City in the Premier League. 

Indeed, the punters propping up our bar are disappointed with how things have gone thus far and, while they don’t like admitting it, the form of Zlatan Ibrahimovic is one of the major let-downs. Though it was amazing the superstar Swede return after such a serious injury at this stage in his career, many of our resident Red Devils believe his re-signing was kind of pointless.

With that in mind, reports to have recently emerged suggesting the former Barcelona and PSG marksman could leave Old Trafford for either China or the MLS barely come as a surprise. Few would doubt his legendary status, though his injury has ruined his time at the Theatre of Dreams and he’ll soon need replacing.

So, having said that, here’s a look at two players who could come in and do a similar job to Ibrahimovic, acting as both cover and competition for Romelu Lukaku.

Mario Mandzukic

Mario Mandzukic may not be as glamorous a name as Ibrahimovic, though the Juventus man would be an excellent addition to an already hugely varied United frontline. Able to operate either centrally or on the wing, the Croatian international’s exceptional work rate and knack for scoring big goals make him an ideal Jose Mourinho player.

With the Old Lady having sold top players in the past, perhaps United could make a realistic move for the 31-year-old, who’d make an instant impact in Manchester.

Javier Hernandez

Yes, Javier Hernandez. The former United star isn’t currently doing all too much at West Ham United, though isn’t being played in a system that best suits his talents under David Moyes. Few would doubt his goalscoring ability and the Mexican is already a hugely popular figure at Old Trafford, having already won two Premier League titles there.

Able to offer a different threat than that of Lukaku’s, it’d be a very clever signing. Indeed, Mourinho has already said he wouldn’t have sold him in the first place.