Manchester United have identified Inter Milan striker Marcus Thuram as a potential January signing following Benjamin Sesko's latest injury setback, which could leave the club without a recognised centre-forward for several months.

According to a report by FootballTransfers on Thursday, 22 October 2026, Manchester United are considering an emergency transfer in January as Sesko faces a possible four-month spell on the sidelines.

The Slovenia international could remain unavailable until late February, leaving manager Michael Carrick with limited options in attack.

Marcus Rashford and Matheus Cunha could be deployed centrally in the short term, but United may need to strengthen their forward line during the winter transfer window.

FootballTransfers reports that recruitment analytics firm SciSports has identified 13 potential replacements for Sesko, with Thuram emerging as one of the most realistic targets.

Several high-profile names, including Harry Kane, Alexander Isak and Joao Pedro, have been considered suitable stylistic alternatives.

However, securing any of those players in January is considered unlikely. Ollie Watkins, Robert Lewandowski and Goncalo Ramos are also viewed as difficult targets after completing moves during the summer.

Thuram, meanwhile, could offer United a more achievable option. The 29-year-old France international has scored four goals in six Serie A appearances this season and is currently playing a more prominent role for Inter because of Lautaro Martinez's hamstring injury.

His physical presence, finishing ability and capacity to link up play are considered qualities that could help United cope with Sesko's absence.

According to SciSports' assessment, Thuram has a SciSkill rating of 118.4, higher than any current Manchester United player. Bryan Mbeumo follows with 117.0, while Cunha has a rating of 111.0.

However, negotiating a January deal could prove challenging because Inter are competing in Serie A and the Champions League.

The Italian club's attacking depth, including young forwards Pio Esposito and Ange-Yoan Bonny, could make discussions possible if the right offer arrives. Previous reports have suggested Inter could consider a fee of around €60 million for Thuram.

Such a transfer would represent a significant investment, particularly given his estimated transfer value of €45.6 million.