The case of the Manchester United mystery striker is heating up.

It's been a fun guessing game in the football world ever since manager Louis van Gaal revealed United is on the verge of signing a new striker.

However, his stipulation that the unnamed player hasn't yet been linked with a transfer to Old Trafford has led many to imagine the countless possibilities who could be on their way to the storied team.

Harry Kane, Cristiano Ronaldo, Thomas Mueller, Robert Lewandowski, Edinson Cavani, or Christian Benteke likely won't be arriving at United after being bandied around as potential targets for months, if not years - or, so Van Gaal wants us to believe.

Here are five players who might be the newest Red Devil:

Klaas-Jan Huntelaar - FC Schalke 04

Dutch striker Klaas-Jan Huntelaar makes sense based on sentimental value alone. However, ask Robin van Persie about national allegiances after his unceremonious exit from United.

Huntelaar always seems to be involved in one rumour or another linking him with a move to England, yet nothing ever materialises. Perhaps this is the type of under-the-radar scenario that finally brings the striker to the Premier League and reunites him with his former national-team manager.

2014-15 Totals - 9 goals, 28 appearances

Gonzalo Higuain - Napoli

Manchester United fans will be forgiven if they fear Gonzalo Higuain is the second coming of Radamel Falcao.

Despite his mighty struggles of late, the Argentine striker continues to be a deadly finisher in front of goal. He could offer the Premier League club a proper front-man capable of finishing off the plethora of chances their talented midfielders will provide.

2014-15 Totals - 18 goals, 37 appearances

Karim Benzema - Real Madrid

The capture of Karim Benzema would stun the football world - not only due to his immense talents, but due to the failure of the Spanish football media to uncover such a bombshell.

The Real Madrid forward would give United a prolific scorer who can wreak havoc against opposing defenders. He won't be cheap, but Benzema, 27, continues to excel and should remain in his prime for years to come.

2014-15 Totals - 15 goals, 29 appearances

Alexandre Lacazette - Lyon

Perhaps the most inconspicuous signing with the biggest upside would be Lyon striker Alexandre Lacazette. The 24-year-old burst into prominence thanks to his blistering scoring pace in Ligue 1 last season.

Luring him away from Lyon, however, could prove difficult between Lacazette's committing his future to the club and the team's refusal to sell France's next soaring superstar.

2014-15 Totals - 27 goals, 33 appearances

Zlatan Ibrahimovic - Paris Saint-Germain

Zlatan Ibrahimovic's arrival at Old Trafford would be the ultimate showstopper.

The big Swedish international has never graced the pitches of the Premier League, which would have the football world buzzing about the upcoming season.

Beyond his otherworldly skills, Ibrahimovic's banter with the media alone would be must-see TV. Zlatan-mania would surely be welcomed with open arms throughout Britain (unless your name is Joe Hart).

(Courtesy: berra86)

2014-15 Totals - 19 goals, 24 appearances