For anyone not paying attention to Italian football, Paulo Dybala looks the real deal. The Argentine has been impressive at Palermo this season, with his quick feet, eye for goal and raw potential, he’s just 21, leading to links with some of the biggest clubs and comparisons with Sergio Aguero.

Among the chasing pack are United, who have been scouting the attacking starlet, according to some reports. But, is Dybala the player Louis van Gaal needs? Maybe not, so here are FIVE other options for the Dutchman to ponder…

Marco Reus

Even though a new contract between Reus and Dortmund was agreed earlier this week, United have already been linked with a stunning move for the German ace. The £20m release clause that was set to kick in at the end of the season is now a distant memory, but speculation suggests that £50m offers may be accepted by BVB, who are by no means clear of relegation from the Bundesliga after a shocking start to the season.

Not an all-out striker, Reus is able to play up top and his pace, skill and ability to put the ball in the net make him an all-round threat, while his style may be more suited to a Louis van Gaal team than that of Radamel Falcao.

Edinson Cavani

The Uruguayan ace seems to be linked with moves every time a transfer window rolls around, and the summer is once again sure to be filled with links surrounding Cavani, with Man United an option. The Red Devils have been linked with the former Napoli man in the past, and he could be a potential replacement for Falcao, with his pace and versatility far greater than the Colombian’s.

Jackson Martinez

‘Scouting missions’ to assess the Porto ace are reported to have already taken place, and with the Colombia international thought to be ready to leave Portuguese football, a deal could well go ahead. Strong, prolific – almost two goals every three games since he moved to Europe from Mexican football in 2012 – and seemingly well suited to the Premier League, he may be an option for United, even if, at 28, he’s edging towards the latter stages of his career.

Kevin De Bruyne

Not a direct replacement, but when United have Robin van Persie, Wayne Rooney and, potentially, Falcao, an all-out centre-forward is not strictly needed. De Bruyne has emerged as a target for Louis van Gaal’s side in recent times following his stunning start to the Bundesliga season with Wolfsburg, in which he’s notched 11 assists and eight goals from an attacking midfield area.

Javier Hernandez

Somewhat a forgotten man at United, Hernandez remains an option when his loan spell at Real Madrid ends. The Mexican had dropped off the radar before leaving for sunny Spain over the summer, but with an impressive goals record wherever he has played, the ball hitting the back of the net is a virtual guarantee with the ‘Little Pea’. He may lack the physicality to lead the line, but Falcao’s underwhelming time in the red shirt has somewhat opened the door.