Cristiano Ronaldo could well have helped Manchester United land their replacement for the veteran this January by confirming his move to Al Nassr.
Last week, it was announced that the five-time Ballon D’or winner would be leaving Europe to take up a new challenge in Saudi Arabia, joining MBS Pro League side Al Nassr on a two-year deal that stands to net him almost 200m euros a year.
It left Manchester United, who he left in November, on the hunt for a striker, though they were unwilling to spend a significant sum this January.
For this reason, they passed on the opportunity to sign Cody Gakpo, who subsequently joined Liverpool, and are focusing more on loan deals.
“We won’t be busy in January but it’s no secret that we’re looking for a new striker”. director of football John Murtough explained. “We already spent £200m in the summer”.
The CR7 domino effect
Now, in an ironic twist of fate, Ronaldo could have landed the Red Devils their new striker.
And it is looking increasingly like Vincent Aboubakar will be the man to miss out, with talks ongoing over his contract termination. Linked with Manchester United, Turkish sources report that Besiktas are also keen on the Cameroon star.
In turn, Erik ten Hag’s side are interested in signing Wout Weghorst, currently on loan with Besiktas from Burnley, and reports in Turkey claim that the Dutchman’s departure will only be permitted if they can agree a deal to sign Aboubakar, otherwise he will be asked to remain in the Super Lig for the remainder of his loan spell.
