After a fairly barren run over the past number of weeks, it seems Manchester United are slowly turning things around. Wins over Spurs and Manchester City were a major stride forward for the club, but it is obvious that they will need to add to the squad if they are to compete at the highest level.
The striker position is one that needs strengthening. Romelu Lukaku was not replaced during the summer and it seems unfair to place much burden on 17-year old Mason Greenwood.
Considering this, it is unsurprising that they have been linked with a move for a big name forward.
Tutto Mercato are reporting that United have made contact with Napoli forward Dries Merten regarding a potential free transfer next summer. The Belgian's contract expires at the end of the season and he is free to sign a pre-contract agreement with another club in January.
Mertens started out as a winger but has transformed himself into a prolific goalscorer during his time in Italy. He has been linked with a big money move over the past couple of seasons, but he is now set to leave on a free.
There have been no signs of a new deal for the player, with the current problems at Napoli making it unlikely he would choose to stay at the club. At 32-years old he is likely looking for one last big payday.
Mertens would be an excellent signing for Manchester United, but considering his age he would likely not be a long-term answer in that position. He would make an ideal placeholder for a couple of seasons until Mason Greenwood matures.
That could be part of their thinking in any move, with the academy graduate set to have a big future in the game. His brace against AZ Alkmaar was just the latest example of his talents.
