Manchester United's early-season struggles have intensified scrutiny of the club's transfer strategy. The Red Devils have taken just five points from their opening five Premier League games, a start that mirrors their 2014/15 campaign under Louis van Gaal.

Michael Carrick acknowledged the parallel. "The Red Devils have taken just five points from their opening five games, something which also occurred in 2014/15 under Louis van Gaal," the manager said. That run has left the team 12th in the Premier League, already ten points behind leaders Manchester City.

Transfer gaps in key positions

Criticism has focused on unaddressed needs at left-back and centre-forward. Luke Shaw is seen as an ageing fitness concern, while summer signing Patrick Dorgu is not yet trusted defensively. Up front, the situation is more acute. Benjamin Sesko has not impressed Carrick, and Joshua Zirkzee is considered insufficient as an attacking option.

Carrick was blunt about the forward line. "Joshua Zirkzee seemingly not good enough and none of Matheus Cunha, Marcus Rashford and Bryan Mbeumo being a natural number nine," he said. Matheus Cunha has filled in due to Amad Diallo's injury but has struggled, scoring just once in the recent draw with Fulham.

This has led to speculation about free agents who could provide immediate cover. Karim Benzema, 38, is available after leaving Al Hilal, where he scored nine goals in ten appearances last season. His complex image-rights deal with the Saudi Pro League complicates any move. Mauro Icardi, 33, is another option after netting 14 times for Galatasaray, with his agent ruling out a return to Argentina. Veteran striker Joselu, 36, is also unattached and offers a physical profile different from Sesko.

Transfer window constraints

The club's summer activity was limited. A late move for left-back Rayan Ait-Nouri failed, and Casemiro's departure on a free transfer left the midfield light, despite signings like Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans. With the January window still closed, Carrick must work with his current squad.

The immediate test comes at Old Trafford on October 10th against Tottenham, who currently sit bottom of the league. United will hope their recent form of one win, two draws and two losses can improve as they seek to climb from their mid-table position.

The report in full is at Yahoo