Targeting a January resurgence, Manchester United tracks Palmeiras sensation Vitor Roque to solve Michael Carrick’s tactical puzzle and inject lethal finishing into a fluctuating frontline.
The summer transfer window closed without Manchester United bolstering the positions identified as recruitment targets.
The Reds signed three central midfielders, which was reported as the most important area to recruit for, and backup goalkeeper Karl Darlow to the senior team.
A left back was thought to be desired, but after being priced out of a potential move for Newcastle's Lewis Hall, United decided not to chase alternative options and instead rely on 31-year-old Luke Shaw for this season.
But a striker was also desired, espcially considering Joshua Zirkzee's constant links away from the club, but it seems United are chasing Pameiras talisman to bolster the attack.
United monitor £51m Roque
With a congested schedule on the horizon, the recruitment is expected to commence in the January transfer window.
Palmeiras attacker Vitor Roque is rumoured to be a possible winter arrival, having thrived at the Brazilian giants since departing Barcelona permanently in 2025.
The 21-year-old has recorded 33 goals and assists since joining Palmeiras and hopes to revive his career after a failed spell in Europe.
The Peoples Person has reported that "Chelsea, Manchester United, Newcastle United, Tottenham Hotspur and Atlético Madrid are closely monitoring the situation of the 21-year-old Palmeiras striker.”
Palmeiras are reported to have set Roque's price tag at £51 million, an approximate £25 million profit on the £25 million fee they paid Barcelona a year ago.
The Palmeiras board has said it would prefer to keep the young attacker but may be swayed by a substantial offer.
The striker conundrum
Michael Carrick's attack has seen many different forms since his tenure began as United manager in early 2026.
The 44-year-old has opted to play Bryan Mbuemo centrally, even if his best position is on the right side, and has utilised Benjamin Šeško and Matheus Cunha through the middle sporadically.
With Zirkzee failing to complete a move to Everton on deadline day, he will likely be the understudy to the three listed above and may depart the club in January.
Marcus Rashford's U-turn on chasing a move away from United has acted as a spanner in Carrick's plans, as shown in the Hull game, where there were six different attackers across the front three at different points. It seems Carrick is yet to decide on his attacking formation.
Another attacking signing seems futile at the minute, but with Champions League games starting soon, and the Reds hoping to make a good account for themselves in both domestic competitions, Roque may become an imperative addition to the roster.
