Thursday, April 18, 2024

Felix, Brobbey & David: The striking options that could replace Cristiano Ronaldo at Manchester United in January

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While Manchester United might have snatched a last-gasp point away at Chelsea over the weekend, it was Cristiano Ronaldo who stole most of the headlines on Saturday evening.

Storming out of United’s 2-0 victory against Tottenham last week and forced to train with the Red Devils’ U21s, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner is in the midst of a public battle with Erik ten Hag.

Although the former Ajax boss might have blocked Ronaldo from leaving Old Trafford during the summer transfer window, it has been suggested that ten Hag has now had a change of heart.

With it looking like the former Real Madrid superstar could be on his way out on Manchester for a second time come January, United are reportedly keen on adding a new attacking option.

So, we have taken a look at a few striking stars that could replace Ronaldo at Old Trafford.

Joao Felix – Atletico Madrid

While Manchester United might have been linked with a move for Matheus Cunha on Deadline Day, it has been suggested that ten Hag has his sights set on another Atletico Madrid star.

Although Joao Felix might have endured a worrying run of form since opening the 2022/23 campaign, the former Benfica starlet is still regarded to be among Europe’s most exciting young talents.

Gaining plenty of praise from across the continent last season, the Portuguese international has previously been linked with a move to the Premier League giants.

However, with The Sun reporting on Saturday that Atletico could be willing to part ways with the 22-year-old if they receive a suitable offer, it has also been suggested that United are keen on snapping up Felix in January.

Likewise, The Sun’s report also states that Felix himself is open to a move away from the Spanish capital when the window reopens after growing frustrated with Diego Simeone’s approach.

Brian Brobbey – Ajax

Although ten Hag might have returned to Ajax over the summer after snapping up both Lisandro Martínez and Antony, could the 52-year-old have his sights set on another Dutch swoop in January?

Once again bagging a brace over the weekend as Ajax stormed their way to a 4-1 romp away at RKC Waalwijk, Brian Brobbey has really come flying out of the traps since opening the 2022/23 campaign.

Although the Dutch heavyweights might need a minor miracle if they’re to extend on their Champions League adventure this year, the 20-year-old appears to be a starlet in demand.

Really impressing many since returning to Ajax after a brief stint with German outfit RB Leipzig, Brobbey has also previously suggested how a potential move to Old Trafford would be a real dream.

Reportedly already holding some behind-the-scenes talks with ten Hag over a Premier League switch, Brobbey would certainly be keen on a reunion with his former boss.

Jonathan David – Lille

While some in France feel that Lille are facing an uphill struggle if they’re to secure a Champions League return this season, Jonathan David has enjoyed a remarkable start to the new campaign.

Spearheading a Canadian side that will be making their first World Cup appearance in over three decades next month, the 22-year-old has gained a fearsome reputation and finds his stock at a red-hot high.

Already mustering nine Ligue 1 strikes this season, it has been suggested over recent months that Lille’s attacking MVP is being monitored by a string of Premier League giants.

First making a name for himself after racking up 37 goals in 83 games for Belgium outfit Gent, Le10Sport have previously suggested that both Liverpool and Arsenal are keen admirers.

However, with it also reported that Manchester United themselves have sent scouts over to watch David over the past year, there is no doubt that many around Old Trafford would be excited by a potential swoop in January.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Tom Dunstan


Formerly of The Independent, Tom has spent the past six years as one of our senior writers and betting experts. Alongside working with numerous publications from across the globe, Tom also graduated from the University of Falmouth in 2014 with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Digital Media.
Spending almost the past decade working in countries such as Australia, New Zealand and Canada, he has also spent time featuring in sports radio. Tom can be followed on Instagram - @iamtomdunstan

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