Man Utd may be about to bank millions thanks to Ruben Amorim's decision

Manchester United's forward line saw a significant reshuffle this summer. The arrival of Benjamin Sesko signalled the departure of Rasmus Hojlund, who was subsequently loaned out to Napoli. The deal included an obligation to buy clause, meaning Hojlund's days in the red of United at Old Trafford are over.

Despite these changes, Joshua Zirkzee, United's only other senior striker, found himself slipping down the pecking order. Although not a traditional centre-forward, Zirkzee was anticipated to compete with and support Sesko, much like he did with Hojlund in the previous season.

This time last year, Zirkzee had clocked up 13 appearances across all competitions, totalling 592 minutes on the pitch. Fast forward a year, and he has made a mere five appearances, amounting to just 90 minutes of playtime.

While there were more matches last season due to United's involvement in the Europa League and a longer run in the Carabao Cup, it's clear that Zirkzee isn't getting the same opportunities as before.

And it's not because Sesko is stealing the limelight. The Slovenian international is slowly finding his form but has only netted two goals in ten games.

The drastic cut in Zirkzee's playing time can be attributed to Ruben Amorim's preference for a formation without a designated striker.

Bryan Mbeumo, Matheus Cunha and Mason Mount were the leading trio for United in their first three league matches of the season, with Amorim reverting to the same triple-threat attack against Liverpool.

The match at Anfield was undoubtedly United's best performance of the season, convincing Amorim that the formation without a striker can be a viable option moving forward.

Amorim either opts not to play with a striker or he selects Sesko. So where does this leave Zirkzee?

The answer is surplus to requirements.

The Dutch international is believed to be drawing attention from several clubs, with West Ham and Sevilla both keeping tabs on his situation.

Valued at £24million by Transfermarkt, there's a strong possibility United could look to sell Zirkzee in January as they aim to resolve their midfield issues, whether that be in the mid-season window or in the summer.

If the formation without a striker hadn't proven its worth, there's every chance United would have decided Zirkzee had to stay.

As it stands, he's clearly not going to get the playing time he needs ahead of next summer's World Cup. It's in the best interests of all parties for a buyer to be found.