Ikpeba insists Zirkzee is not a 20-goal striker, urges Manchester United to target Brentford star

Retired Nigeria international Victor Ikpeba has insisted that Joshua Zirkzee is not the solution to Manchester United's goalscoring problems and is urging the Premier League giants to target a move for Brentford striker Ivan Toney.

On his competitive debut for the Red Devils last Friday, the cap-tied Netherlands international of Nigerian descent announced his entry to the Premier League by scoring the match-winning goal in a 1-0 victory against Fulham, netting with his first attempt at goal after coming off the bench.

Since turning professional, Zirkzee has not managed to score 20 goals in a single season, with his highest tally being 18 goals during a loan spell at RSC Anderlecht in the 2021-2022 campaign.

Ikpeba acknowledged that the dual-national forward scoring on his debut would boost his confidence but emphasized that United should still sign a proven center forward before the transfer window closes.

Speaking on SuperSport's Monday Night Football, monitored by allnigeriasoccer.com, the former African Footballer of the Year explained: "We don't judge players in their first games. It's good for his confidence. Signing a big name striker will be helpful, a striker that can have 20 goals in a season, that consistency up front."

Ikpeba does not see Zirkzee scoring 20 goals in total in his first season at Manchester United and highlighted the qualities of Ivan Toney, praising him for his aerial ability and physicality. 

"They need something different like Ivan Toney. I think he has 'issues' with Brentford. If they can go for him that would be good for Manchester United.

"He's a tall lad, he bothers defenders, very good aerially and technically very good with the ball. He can take on defenders. That would be a plus for the team if they can go for him.," Ikpeba added. 

England international Toney was not called up for Brentford's opening match of the new Premier League season against Crystal Palace on Sunday due to transfer interest from Saudi Pro League club Al-Ahli.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel

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