The former Manchester United striker Michael Owen, who scored 17 goals in his 52 appearances for the club, is putting United's striking department situation under the spotlight.

With Radamel Falcao apparently on his way to Chelsea on a loan deal, after returning to Monaco, and former colleague Robin van Persie facing an uncertain future at Old Trafford, Owen is not convinced selling Danny Welbeck last summer was the brightest idea, just like he suggested when the transfer to Arsenal took place.

Owen, in a conversation with ESPN, suggested that United would "have some issues" when it comes to strikers this season. Owen pointed towards the absence of Falcao and the decline of Robin van Persie, before admitting that Wayne Rooney is "a reliable goal threat," but pointing out that he would not "be around forever."

Striking struggle at Old Trafford

With James Wilson, who's still yet to blossom at the highest level despite being way too good for United's U21 side where he has appeared - and scored - frequently in recent years, is currently United's only striker with pace as his main force.

Van Persie, on the other hand, is appearing more stolid than solid - and Rooney delivered only a single away goal in the Premier League last term, which was less than both Falcao and Daley Blind. In other words, United could do with a quick threat up-front.

Owen, who did not mince his words, suggested that United now have a "huge void up front" after the departure of Welbeck last season. The former United player was quick to point towards Van Gaal's big-spending since his arrival - £180million in the Dutchman's first season in charge -suggesting that United "need to spend a whole lot more to compete."

Welbeck or Falcao?

Despite this, is clear that Welbeck has not thrived on his potential at Arsenal either. Four league goals in 25 appearances was equal to the frequently under-fire Radamel Falcao's numbers, although Welbeck additionally bagged a Champions League hat-trick against Galatasaray and an FA Cup winner against United as well. The Colombian, however, did only complete the full 90 minutes on four occasions, whereas Welbeck did it nine times over the course of the season.

Nonetheless, both Falcao and Welbeck have played their final home game at Old Trafford, and some summer transfer business in the striking department seems imminent for United.

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About the author
Nicolas Berg
Football analyst with a degree in media knowledge.