"Bargain Bin" MLS Strikers that Toronto FC Could Consider Picking Up

Although Toronto has enjoyed early season success with four points from its first two road matches, it is no surprise that there is a demand for a backup striker. With Jozy Altidore's hamstring issue along with the possibility of him and Sebastian Giovinco being called to their respective national teams, Toronto will often find themselves depleted in regards to strikers.

While Tsubasa Endoh and Jonathan Osorio can be used as wingers in a 4-3-3, Toronto do not have a tall striker to compliment Giovinco aside from Altidore. However, as proven if he is absent, a standard 4-4-2 formation cannot be played and therefore Toronto is limited to a 4-3-3 (really a 4-5-1) with Giovinco alone up top.

As a result, Greg Vanney has made it clear that Toronto is looking within MLS for a suitable striker that fits within the club's budget. Therefore, we will consider potential targets for Toronto and who may become available in a trade or as a free agent.

Alan Gordon

A former Toronto FC player, Alan Gordon was an unused substitute in LA Galaxy's first two matches this season. With tremendous striker depth including Keane, Dos Santos, Zardes and Magee, playing time for Alan Gordon may be hard to come by this season. This despite appearing in 29 matches last season (only seven starts) and scoring five goals. At 6'3" and with great heading ability, Alan Gordon could be a perfect compliment to Giovinco and is certainly used to being an active substitute striker in MLS.

Kenny Cooper

An injury plagued season with Montreal last year resulted in Kenny Cooper being waived and without a club. A former Toronto FC nemesis, Cooper is only 31 years of age and has plenty of MLS experience while being a former MLS Best XI and US International player. Another tall striker that would work well with Giovinco and potentially score goals, Cooper is available and could come for cheaper than expected.

Tesho Akindele

A Canadian who is considered an international player for FC Dallas, Tesho Akindele is another player that could be available. Given FC Dallas's attacking depth, Tesho has consistently come off the bench for the club including both their matches this season along with four of their MLS playoff games last season. Although he typically plays as a winger, Tesho can certainly play as a central striker as well and has the ability to start in this league. Toronto may be able to strike a deal by trading draft picks and a defender to Dallas.

Edson Buddle

Another former Toronto FC player that should be considered is Edson Buddle. Currently without a club, Buddle was with LA Galaxy last season and became expendable due to their strong attacking depth. He is someone who will definitely fit under the current cap situation, however he is probably of less quality than the strikers Toronto gave up in the offseason such as Luke Moore and Robbie Findley. However, if Buddle suddenly finds his old form, he can be a good option for a season or two as a backup striker for Toronto.

What other potential strikers should Toronto consider acquiring this season?