Manchester United are exploring all possible options in their hunt for a striker in the January window, and could even move for Olivier Giroud or Marcus Thuram, Dharmesh Sheth has claimed.

What's the word?

Erik ten Hag is keen to bring a forward in during the transfer window and is eyeing up short-term options, even on loan.

Joao Felix has been linked, but United could explore cheaper options, and are assessing every possible target that falls their way, Sheth has claimed.

Speaking on the Stretford Paddock Podcast, Sheth stated that Ten Hag is desperate for the right forward and will assess all his options including the pair, who both appeared for France in the World Cup.

"Thuram and Giroud, if it was a loan, and it made sense financially for United. United are assessing every option they can," he claimed.

"Erik ten Hag has made it clear that a forward is a priority, but he has always said it has to be the right player, be that player for six months or long-term."

A quick boost

If United do choose a short-term option to inject some goals between now and the end of the season, then it would have to be an option who can hit the ground running immediately with limited adaptation time.

Giroud looks unlikely despite his vast experience in the Premier League, as his lack of mobility given his age may not suit Ten Hag's pressing style, in a similar way to Cristiano Ronaldo.

Thuram would arrive as a versatile, international forward, and with just six months left on his deal, he may not be too expensive and at 25, he can also be a long-term option.

This will be a crucial window for United, as the arrival of a goalscorer could be the difference between a title challenge, a top-four finish or another season of disappointment.