Man Utd join Newcastle in race to sign Ronaldo’s successor

Jacque Talbot

29 Jun 2023 13:30 BST
3 min read

Erik ten Hag, Gonçalo Ramos, 2023 — © ProShots

Manchester United have joined Newcastle in the race for Goncalo Ramos.

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FootballTransfers linked the attacker to the Magpies on Wednesday - with it thought that Eddie Howe has the player on his wishlist, though it’s not clear whether a move will be made this summer window.

But Ramos is not short of suitors. According to Correio da Manha Benfica president, Rui Costa, believes that the Red Devils will be willing to match Ramos’ €80m release clause this summer, with plenty of clubs circling.

Man Utd believe that Daniel Levy is unlikely to sell Harry Kane to a Premier League rival, while Bayern Munich have started to move up a gear in terms of bringing the Englishman in.

Erik ten Hag wants a suitable No.9 ahead of next season. The Dutchman wants to bring in a striker who is able to challenge the top scorer charts for the next campaign.

Ramos would be an ideal fit for this. The Benfica star managed 19 goals and seven assists in the Portuguese league last season, and being just 22 years old, there is a bright future ahead for the youngster.

He is someone who can grow under Ten Hag in the future.

Man Utd's attack for next season

Marcus Rashford enjoyed his best season in 2022/23 and is able to find the net, but he is better off playing on the flank rather than directly leading the line for Man Utd.

© ProShots - Martial is likely to be sold

It’s possible that wingers Jadon Sancho and Anthony Martial are sold, so further attackers must be brought in, especially as Man Utd contend with Champions League football next season.

Another target is thought to be Atalnata’s Rasmus Hojland, but the Italian club expect a significant fee.

And Napoli’s Victor Osimhen is thought to be another target for Man Utd, but again the fee could be problematic.