Manchester United are already on the hunt of a replacement for Cristiano Ronaldo, who reportedly has been given the permission to leave the club in January. The star forward’s numerous failed attempts to quit Old Trafford this summer over lack of Champions League football was the highlight of the transfer window. However, the picture could well change in the winter transfer market as Ronaldo could finally seal a move to a ‘Champions League club’.
And on the other hand, United have shortlisted Brentford’s Ivan Toney as their prime target to replace Ronaldo according to Calciomercato. Toney was a surprising talent to the Premier League after the Bees achieved promotion to the English top flight. Leading Brentford’s attack, the England striker was a revelation who single-handedly helped Brentford continue in the Premier League for a second straight season.
Toney’s top form has convinced United that he can succeed Cristiano Ronaldo
Reports from Manchester United have confirmed that Erik ten Hag is on the lookout of a new striker, as he has reduced Cristiano Ronaldo’s role to a mere benchwarmer. The Dutchman wants young blood and pacey legs, who can play his high-pressing football. Ronaldo doesn’t fit the bill, and Ten Hag has preferred Anthony Martial over the 37-year-old. However, Martial’s constant injuries have sidelined him for majority of the season so far, despite his rejuvenating form.
As a result, Ten Hag wants a new No.9 who suits his system and remains injury-free. Ivan Toney is a perfect player who ticks all the boxes, as he has already proved his mettle in the Premier League. The striker netted an impressive 12 goals and provided 5 assists in 33 league outings last season, while taking his overall tally to 14 goals and 6 assists in 37 games in all competitions.
Many touted the Bees’ striker could just be another ‘one season wonder’ and that won’t keep up with the consistency. However, the 26-year-old has silenced those mouths by already scoring 6 goals and collecting 2 assists in 9 Premier League games so far this season. Toney’s numbers speak for themselves, as last season in the league he delivered a whopping 2.7 shots, 2.4 shot-creating actions, 1.3 chances created as well as a tackle, 1.3 clearances, 3.3 successful presses and 4.5 aerial duels per game.
Toney has been the focal point of Thomas Frank’s Brentford team which finished a club record 13th place in the English top flight last season. However, the club hasn’t talked about a contract extension with the talismanic forward, whose current deal runs until the summer of 2025. Hos market value to stands at a mere £36 million at the moment, as United could solve their attacking crisis after potentially losing Cristiano Ronaldo without splashing an enormous fee.