Manchester United returned to winning ways in the Champions League after coming from behind to beat AS Roma 3-2 at Old Trafford. Bruno Fernandes' penalty and a brace from Matheus Cunha sealed a much-needed three points for Michael Carrick.

However, not all the news was positive after the game. Carlos Baleba pulled up in the early moments of the second half with what looks to be a hamstring injury, and when speaking after the game, Carrick said early signs do not look good. 

The Cameroonian had only just returned from an ankle injury that caused him to miss the first few months of the season, and now this muscle injury could keep him out beyond January at the worst. 

He has been added to a growing injury list which includes Luke Shaw, Marcus Rashford, Benjamin Sesko and Manuel Ugarte. 

Manchester United no doubt need to enter the January transfer window with the objective of signing at least two players, including a striker. 

Not only is Sesko out until at least January, but Joshua Zirkzee also seems to be out of the picture and could be on his way out. This would cement the idea that United needs a striker, as they lack a true figurehead up front without the Slovenian.

Ivan Toney has emerged as an option. According to Football Insider, Peter O'Rourke has reported that United have added the Englishman to their shortlist as he 'ticks all the boxes' for what they would want in a striker. 

However, not only is Toney on a lucrative contract in the Saudi Pro League, but his club, Al-Ahli, has no financial reason to sell their prized asset, either. If the Red Devils explore a deal for the striker, it would have to be a short-term loan. 

Toney is a compelling option for Manchester United. The striker has torn the Saudi Pro League apart, scoring 68 league goals since the 24/25 season, including 13 this season in nine games.

Despite being in Saudi Arabia, he has still been called up to England camps, which suggests he can still play at the highest level. But the most obvious risk is whether he has the physical traits to keep up with the demands of the Premier League week in, week out.

However, the interesting part of the deal is that, while at Brentford in the Premier League, he had a brilliant partnership with none other than Bryan Mbeumo, with whom he would be reunited. 

The pair's pre-existing relationship and knowledge of how they play could only benefit United and help him adjust to the club. The same logic applies to signing Rayan Ait-Nouri, given his partnership with Cunha at Wolves.

Bringing in players who know each other's game inside out is exactly what the club needs at a time when the players feel disconnected.