Roland Cutinho
Manchester United targeting Sasa Kalajdzic as Cristiano Ronaldo’s replacement
According to the Daily Mail (h/t Metro), Manchester United are targeting Stuttgart striker, Sasa Kalajdzic as a potential replacement for Cristiano Ronaldo this summer. The Austrian international was instrumental in the German club’s success last year, scoring six goals in 15 Bundesliga games to save Stuttgart from relegation.
With his contract set to expire next summer, the 25-year-old has been linked with a move away from the Mercedes-Benz Arena despite keeping his club in the top division. Manchester United would be apparently interested in signing the striker as they aim to bolster their offensive line.
The 25-year-old has already been the subject of discussions between the Red Devils and his parent club, but no deal has yet been finalized.
West Ham United, Brighton & Hove Albion, and Southampton are all said to be interested in signing the striker, so if United decide to make a bid for him, they would have to face competition from other Premier League clubs.
Sasa Kalajdzic had a decent season last year, but a nasty shoulder injury prevented him from progressing further. Even though Kalajdzic was only able to play in 15 Bundesliga games the previous season, he still managed to contribute to chip in goals as his team narrowly avoided relegation.
The 25-year-old’s biggest challenge over the next couple of seasons would be staying fit since his on-field performances would signify the fact that he has the raw talent to play for elite clubs.
The Red Devils would have no option but to dive into the transfer market if Ronaldo pursues a move to another club. The 37-year-old has been a part of United’s squad that have faced Rayo Vallecano. However, the striker has yet to speak on his future and until now, it looks complicated.
Erik ten Hag would benefit from the 2.0 metre tall striker as he has been able to manage Sebastian Haller at Ajax. The Red Devils have fewer backup options in case Ronaldo leaves, with both, Anthony Martial and Marcus Rashford unable to maintain consistency.
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The Austrian attacker would be available for a fee of around £17million which would be easier for Manchester United to deal with if they can release Ronaldo’s huge wages off their financial books.
