Three Ronaldo replacements we KNOW are on Man Utd’s shortlist

Robin Bairner

• Updated: 23 May 2023 09:00 CDT
• 3 min read

Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has admitted that a replacement for Cristiano Ronaldo is very much on his agenda for the January transfer window.

Ronaldo was released by mutual consent in November following an explosive interview that was not solicited by the club, but his departure has blown a huge hole in the Man Utd attack.

The Red Devils are short of a centre forward for the second half of the season, and the Dutchman has confessed that he wants to fill the void in this squad – but not at any cost.

MORE: World Cup star was a ‘must buy’, Rangnick told Man Utd months ago

“Yes, but only when we find the right player,” he said when asked if securing a replacement for Ronaldo was a priority.

“We do everything that is in our power, so I do research on every opportunity that comes. We do everything we can if that opportunity will be there.”

EXCLUSIVE: Newcastle target Atletico star Joao Felix but he wants Man Utd

United will be following multiple options, but here are three players FootballTransfers can confirm are on their shortlist:

Goncalo Ramos – Benfica

As Ben Jacobs has confirmed, Ten Hag is a “fan” of Benfica striker Goncalo Ramos, who enjoyed a breakout performance with a hat-trick against Switzerland in the World Cup. Ramos’ display has elevated his profile significantly, and with it his price tag. PSG came close to landing the striker last summer and are likely to provide the main competition this time around. Man Utd may need to move in January to secure a deal – but this may actually suit them.

Victor Osimhen – Napoli

Nigeria international Osimhen was a player that Manchester United were chasing last summer but failed to land. FootballTransfers can confirm that he remains a player of interest to Ten Hag as a replacement for Ronaldo. However, the former Lille hitman is settled in Italy, and with his club soaring high in Serie A, the prospect of Napoli selling at this juncture of the season are extremely limited.

Cody Gakpo – PSV

Not strictly a replacement for Ronaldo as he would occupy a place out wide, but if Gakpo does arrive at Old Trafford, he will free up someone else, probably Marcus Rashford, to provide support in the No.9 role. An outstanding World Cup helps his case and the Netherlands star has already indicated that he is open to a deal. His arrival would provide a short-term solution and buy United time to find a striker in the summer. Expect Gakpo to be the priority and a forward to follow in the summer.