Who can replace Ronaldo?:Some possible transfer targets for Manchester United in their quest to plug the gap left by Ronaldo
Franck Ribery(Bayern Munich)
With Bayern Munich reportedly demanding around €70 million for the winger’s services, United are the only team with enough cash in the bank to sign Ribery. Regarded as the next genuine superstar, Ribery is, however, more keen on a move to Barcelona.
Karim Benzema(Olympique Lyon)
Reportedly a long-standing target of Alex Ferguson’s, the moody French youngster combines flair with goalscoring ability in a similar way to Ronaldo.
However, disappointing domestic and European season has seen his stock fall recently.
David Silva(Valencia)
Another versatile attacker like Ronaldo, left-footed Silva can play on either wing or as a central attacker and scores nearly as many as he creates. Still only 23, the Canary Islander is available due to Valencia’s crippling debts but would not come cheap. Liverpool are also reportedly interested.
Antonio Valencia(Wigan Athletic)
Ecuador winger Valencia has been linked strongly with Madrid and United in the last 12 months, but Ronaldo’s switch to Spain seemingly leaves the path clear for the pacy South American to go to Old Trafford. Ferguson seems impressed by Valencia, but may exhaust other avenues before turning to him.
Alexis Sanchez(Udinese)
A left-field contender perhaps, the diminutive Chile international has quickly adapted to life in Europe since arriving in Serie A last year. Intelligent, quick and tricky, with an eye for goal, the sensational South American would cost in the region of €28 million, leaving plenty of funds for the signing of a proven orthodox striker.
Pato(AC Milan)
The recent power shift means English clubs have leapt above the Italians in the food chain and, having already lost Kaka, Milan’s next Brazilian idol is also there for the taking. Chelsea seemed in pole position for The Duck, but United’s newly-earned pocket money would allow them to gamble on the vastly-talented striker.
Samuel Eto'o(Barcelona)
With the jury still out on Dimitar Berbatov, Ferguson may be keen to sign an out-and-out striker. With David Villa off to Real Madrid, he could look to the Cameroonian if the part-exchange deal taking him to Inter Milan with Zlatan Ibrahimovic heading to Barca does not go through.
