Manchester United fans were given a license to dream, after recent reports suggested that Cristiano Ronaldo is ready to quit the Spanish Capital this summer. After winning 9 trophies in just over 13 months, the Portuguese man was hit by a tax fraud allegation, which has angered him to such an extent that he wants to quit the country. BBC reports suggest that he has told the club and his agent that he does not want to stay in Spain anymore and Sky Sports have claimed that he is set for move back to Old Trafford. However, it is likely that the 12-time UCL champions will hold out for a fee that is more than double the world record amount. Though, United as well-known might be able to afford that, they must think of the repercussions and should look elsewhere. Here are three alternatives for Cristiano Ronaldo who Manchester United can target.
Kylian Mbappe (AS Monaco)
The French international is just growing in confidence and has shown everyone that he is set for the European stage of football. Mbappe is breaking records by the day and is easily the best young attacker on show in Europe at the moment. Real Madrid have already submitted a €130m bid rejected for him and they might have to submit a bigger bid than that. However, Mbappe is going to be cheaper than Ronaldo and Jose Mourinho should look at him as a possible option this summer.
Gareth Bale (Real Madrid)
The Welshman has not been able to keep himself injury-free for even one season since his three years move to Bernabeu and missed a lot of games last season as well, which saw him down the pecking order under Zinedine Zidane. Though he might still be in Zidane’s plans for the upcoming season, but if the right bid is offered, Bale could be sold and Manchester United would be better off spending on the former Tottenham man, who still has a lot to offer than Cristiano Ronaldo. Bale will also cost less than his teammates and could be a game changer at Old Trafford.
Neymar Jr (Barcelona)
Neymar is currently settled at the Camp Nou and there is not talk of an exit recently but the Brazilian man has always been targeted by United and the recent developments involving Ronaldo might push to enter negotiations with Barcelona for their star man. It would be a tough decision for Neymar leaving behind his teammates – Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez – but Mourinho should convince him of his position at Old Trafford, which might tempt him to England.