Manchester United eye Portugal and SL Benfica star Goncalo Ramos as Cristiano Ronaldo successor
Portugal and SL Benfica star Goncalo Ramos is being eyed as the successor to Cristiano Ronaldo by Manchester United, according to Fichajes (h/t Manchester Evening News).
The Red Devils have identified the 21-year-old as the ideal replacement for the five-time Ballon d’Or winner at the club. Just before the start of the World Cup, the Old Trafford side parted ways with the 37-year-old after his controversial interview with Piers Morgan.
Now, the Manchester-based club are prioritising the signature of the Primeira Liga striker. His current contract with the Eagles concludes at the end of the 2025/26 campaign. But Erik ten Hag wants to bolster his forward line next summer.
Romas has come up through the ranks at Benfica. His breakout season with the Eagles came in the previous campaign. However, the 21-year-old has become the Primeira Liga outfit’s talisman after Darwin Nunez’s move to Liverpool in the recent transfer window.
The Portugal international has made 21 appearances in all competitions for Benfica in all competitions this season. He has found the back of the net 14 times and has provided four assists.
Ramos has caught a lot of people’s eyes at the World Cup. Fernando Santos surprisingly started the 21-year-old ahead of Ronaldo in their round-of-16 clash against Switzerland. However, the Portuguese gaffer’s gamble paid off as the youngster scored a hattrick in the 6-1 win.
United’s forward line has lost depth after the five-time Ballon d’Or winner’s untimely exit from the club. Anthony Martial is the only natural striker at Ten Hag’s disposal at the moment.
Unfortunately, the French national has been on the sidelines for most of the season. As a result, Marcus Rashford has had to play as a makeshift striker on various occasions.
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Thus, we evidently need to add reinforcements up front. Ramos has shown a keen eye for goal in the current campaign. The Red Devils should think about getting the 21-year-old’s signature considering his age and potential.