Cristiano Ronaldo: Erik ten Hag Names the Two Strikers He Wants Man United to Sign to Replace Veteran Striker

• Man United manager Erik ten Hag has commenced plans to find a replacement for Cristiano Ronaldo
• United terminated Ronaldo's contract earlier last week with a few months left on the striker's contract
• The five-time Ballon d'Or winner is equally hunting for a new club ahead of the upcoming January transfer window

Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag has reportedly identified two strikers he wants Manchester United to sign to replace Cristiano Ronaldo.

United parted ways with Ronaldo earlier last week, with the Premier League giants opting to terminate the forward's Old Trafford contract early.

Ronaldo had a couple of months left on his contract with the Red Devils, having rejoined them on a two-year deal in the summer of 2021 from Juventus.

However, his recent controversial interview with British journalist Piers Morgan left United chiefs with no choice but to cut ties with the club icon.

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With the 37-year-old now hunting for his next club, Man United have also entered the market to find his replacement ahead of the January transfer window.

Ten Hag is said to have opted against making any new signings during the upcoming window, especially after spending heaving in the summer.

However, that won't be the case, with the Dutchman now prioritising the signing of a striker to replace the five-time Ballon d'Or winner.

According to Metro UK, citing ESPN, the United boss has shortlisted the duo of Cody Gakpo and Chelsea transfer target Rafael Leao as perfect candidates to replace Ronaldo.

Gakpo was linked with a move to Old Trafford in the summer, but the transfer did not materialise.

The PSV Eindhoven star has enjoyed a stunning rise to prominence, courting interest from several European clubs.

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Leao, meanwhile, is a wanted man in the Premier League, with the Blues leading the chase for the AC Milan marksman.

Barca star loves Man United

Earlier, Sports Brief reported Barcelona teenage star Alejandro Balde has openly declared his love for Premier League side Manchester United.

The 19-year-old was asked about the other club he would potentially be with and named the Red Devils.

Balde's admission came at a time he has enjoyed a significant rise to prominence and is expected to court interest from top clubs in the coming transfer windows.