Five players who could replace Cristiano Ronaldo at Manchester United

There are not many players who can step into the shoes of the Portuguese forward.

After joining Manchester United last year, Cristiano Ronaldo was expected to lead the club's resurgence. However, the Portuguese superstar is reportedly on his way out after just one season at Old Trafford. According to reports, Cristiano Ronaldo intends to leave Old Trafford this summer as he isn't satisfied with the club's business in the transfer market.

In the wake of Manchester United's sixth-place finish last season, Ronaldo's future has been under dark clouds due to the lack of Champions League football next season. Apparently, the Portuguese superstar only wants to play Champions League and is looking for a new challenge as soon as possible. Jorge Mendes, his agent, is already exploring various options with other clubs. Chelsea have emerged as the top candidate for his next destination after Jorge Mendes meet with Chelsea's owner a few weeks ago.

There's no doubt that replacing a player of Ronaldo's calibre will not be simple for United, especially as they failed to win a single Premier League game last season without him. In this article, we will take a look at five players who could replace Ronaldo at Manchester United.

5. Robert Lewandowski (FC Bayern Munich)

Robert Lewandowski has been a goal machine at FC Bayern Munich for years now. But his time with the German giants is reportedly coming to an end this summer. This summer, the Polish striker has publicly expressed his desire to pursue new challenges. According to reports, he has agreed personal terms with Joan Laporta to join FC Barcelona. 

Although Lewandowski might not rule out moving to England due to financial uncertainty at FC Barcelona. For years, Manchester United have lacked a powerpack goal machine up front. Last season, they used Cavani, Rashford, and Martial but none seemed to be able to consistently find the back of the net. In spite of the fact that Lewandowski only wishes to move to Spain, a move to Manchester United would surely benefit both parties.

4.Neymar (Paris Saint Germain)

Neymar has been a key figure at Paris Saint Germain since his record move to the club in 2017. However, in recent seasons his standing has decreased at the club and new manager Christophe Galtier isn't confident about Neymar's role in the team's tactics. In spite of the fact that Neymar has already stated that he wants to remain in Paris and win the Champions League, the latest developments contradict that assertion.

His career hasn't reached its full potential yet, but moving to England could be the turning point. It could be beneficial for both the club and the player if he moves to Manchester United since the club has been going through a lot lately. The Brazilian is one of the most technically gifted player in the world and can easily succeed in Premier League. 

3. Antony (Ajax)

In this summer's transfer window, Antony has emerged as Manchester United's top attacking target. United have been extensive scouting Antony. Erik ten Hag wants to bring him to Old Trafford. Last season, the Brazilian was ten Hag's main man at Ajax, scoring eight goals and providing four assists in Eredivisie.

Two years after arriving at the Amsterdam club in 2020, Antony has established himself as one of Europe's most promising prospects. Despite the fact that he will cost Manchester United a lot of money, he can be a good replacement for Ronaldo. It's true that Antony isn't a proven goalscorer like Ronaldo, but he certainly has the potential to reach the top level.

2. Victor Osimhen (Napoli)

Victor Osimhen was one of the brightest stars in Serie A last season. In 23 starts last season, he scored 14 goals. Several European clubs have been monitoring Osimhen since he arrived in Naples in 2020. Though he is yet to showcase his real talent, small glimpses have already made him famous.

He is tall and has a powerful athletic presence in the box. He could be a perfect replacement for Cristiano Ronaldo at Old Trafford. Besides being a goal scorer, Osimhen will also fit in with Erik ten Hag's relentless pressing philosophy. The only question will be whether it is too early for him to sign for a big pressure club like Manchester United.

1. Paulo Dybala (Free Agent)

Since his departure from Turin, Paulo Dybala has been wandering as a free agent. Although he was an influential figure at Old Lady, he decided not to extend his contract to take on a new challenge. A big race was expected to surround his signing, but big clubs are yet to express any interest. The Argentine star was heavily linked to Inter Milan, but the move appears to have fallen through.

The last couple of seasons haven't been great for Dybala, but before that, he was a major force. A club like Manchester United could be a great place for him. He can certainly be a lethal option for the red devils. The departure of Cristiano Ronaldo would leave a huge hole in the attack, and Dybala could fill it well. Additionally, Dybala is very versatile and can play in multiple positions.

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