Man United is considering a number of attacking options to replace Cristiano Ronaldo in January.
Due to Cristiano Ronaldo's turbulent departure from Manchester United, a replacement can step in to take Cristiano Ronaldo's position in January.
After a contentious altercation with club president Erik ten Hag, the 37-year-old quit United in an unethical way. Ronaldo rocked the football world when he exposed United's dirty laundry in a furious interview with Piers Morgan. Ronaldo was previously regarded as the finest player in the world until surrendered that title to World Cup Winner Lionel Messi.
The Red Devils and Ten Hag eventually decided to cut ties with the legendary player from Portugal after his disrespectful outburst. However, while Ronaldo looks for a new team, United is looking for a striker who can carry the team forward without the former Old Trafford favourite.
Numerous players have been connected to the Red Devils and might potentially go to Old Trafford in January. And here, the Daily Star examines the finest of the lot, from Lautoro Martinez to Cody Gakpo.
Here are some players that could possibly replay Ronaldo at Manchester United.
Cody Gakpo
Cody Gakpo, a superstar for PSV Eindhoven, has recently been frequently linked to a transfer to Man United.
During his tenure as Ajax manager, Ten Hag developed a fondness for the Dutch striker, and he is eager to bring the 23-year-old to the Premier League. However, United will have to spend much to get the star who scored three goals to propel the Netherlands to the World Cup quarterfinal.
Gakpo's price has increased from about £28 million to £50 million as a result of his offensive skill in the World Cup. If United can match his asking price, they could be in luck, as the PSV director wouldn't rule out selling the prized possession of the Dutch team.
When asked about United's interest, Brands said: "Amounts have not been discussed, but if the right club comes that Cody would like to go."
Lautaro Martinez
Another player who stood out at the World Cup and has caught Man United's attention is Inter Milan's star, Lautaro Martinez. Martinez assisted Argentina in winning the prized trophy, and Ten Hag apparently wants him to help United win trophies.
The Manchester Evening News reports that Inter values the striker at £70 million, so he won't be cheap. Ten Hag will also need to persuade Martinez, who is rumoured to be content at the Serie A giants, that United is the perfect club for him.
Martinez faces further challenges from Chelsea because the West London club is also interested in the attacker. However, if the Blues are successful in signing Ronaldo, who has been strongly linked with a move to Stamford Bridge, they may decide not to pursue Martinez any further.
Marcus Thuram
One of France's top performers in their World Cup final loss was Marcus Thuram. Prior to Les Bleus' defeat to Argentina in the penalty shootout, the 25-year-old came off the bench and assisted Kylian Mbappe's miraculous goal that tied the score.
And Thuram has caught United's attention due to his contributions during the competition, according to Sport Bild via Team Talk. When the talented attacker's deal with Borussia Monchengladbach expires in the summer, United may be able to sign him for free.
The Red Devils will be able to offer him a pre-contract in January as a result. If United can't wait until the conclusion of the season, as Bild predicts, they may get him at a discount in the New Year.
Goncalo Ramos
Goncalo Ramos, Ronaldo's substitute for Portugal, might take Ronaldo's spot at Manchester United. Ramos boldly made his World Cup debut when he was selected over Ronaldo in Portugal's rout over Switzerland in the group stage.
In Ronaldo's absence, the 21-year-old Benfica star scored a hat-trick in the match. And because United has him high on their list of objectives, he may soon be doing the same there.
Ramos' achievements on the international scene, though, have caused his worth to skyrocket. According to reports, his value before the tournament was £17 million, but his release clause is now £104 million.
Antoine Griezmann
Antoine Griezmann was instrumental in advancing France to the World Cup championship match, despite missing the World Cup championship game. And the Red Devils, who are rumoured to be considering an offer for the Atletico Madrid maverick, took notice of his gallant performances.
The Premier League heavyweights are considering making a move for Griezmann, 31 because they think he can recreate his France success at Old Trafford. It may be difficult to convince him to move to Manchester though, considering he recently finished his permanent transfer from Barcelona to Atletico.
Griezmann has spent his whole career in Spain since entering the Real Sociedad academy in 2005, and it will be difficult to persuade him to move away from the country given that his wife is Spanish. Griezmann is an offensive playmaker, but United needs a centre-forward, thus many wonder if he will fit into the team's strategy.