Erik ten Hag outlines two World Cup stars as Cristiano Ronaldo replacements

Originally posted on Stretty News | Last updated 11/26/22

The Manchester United manager has shortlisted two potential Cristiano Ronaldo replacements to join the club in January.

According to ESPN, Erik ten Hag has told the club to explore deals for Rafael Leao and Cody Gakpo to bolster the United attack following the departure of the 37-year-old.

Both players are in outstanding form for their respective clubs this season and are representing their national teams at the World Cup.

Cody Gakpo

Gakpo has netted two goals for his side so far, both of which have been crucial in the Netherlands picking up points in Group A.

At club level, he is one of the most in-form strikers across Europe. In 24 appearances he has scored 13 goals and assisted 17. That kind of prolific finishing is the exact thing the Reds have been missing; in the Premier League, United have scored only 20 goals so far – 11th in comparison with their competitors.

Ten Hag approached the 23-year-old over a potential transfer in the summer before prioritising the signing of Antony.

Rafael Leao

Leao also netted his first World Cup goal for Portugal on Thursday evening and was assisted by Bruno Fernandes – a link-up that has the potential to be successful at Old Trafford. He has scored seven and assisted nine for the Serie A reigning champions this season after lifting the lucrative league title with them last season.

He was named Serie A Footballer of the Year, Serie A Most Valuable Player and finished 14th place in the Ballon d’Or rankings. AC Milan will likely attach a hefty price tag to their talented forward.

This article first appeared on Stretty News and was syndicated with permission.

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