With the January transfer window coming closer, various key players have been linked to Manchester United once again. United have had a positive start to this campaign, and it would be no surprise if we see their squad strengthened after the next transfer window. Let us take a look at the top five Manchester United transfer targets.
1. Cristiano Ronaldo
The biggest footballing star of this generation, Cristiano Ronaldo could be on his move away from the Spanish Giants Real Madrid as early as this January after reports that Manchester United are keen to lure him away the Portuguese back to the Premier League.
It is interesting to note that Manchester United are currently in contention for the Premier League title and as a result, an offer big enough could finally bring him back to the Old Trafford.
Due to United’s poor form over the past few seasons, all the previous attempts to lure Cristiano Ronaldo away from the Santiago Bernabeu failed. However, an improved United squad could finally bring back the Coveted finisher.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s increasing age is going to be an important factor that Real Madrid are going to consider as they would also like to gain the highest money out of the deal with Manchester United while he is still on top. A transfer fee in the region of $120 million could settle this record breaking deal. Clubs like Paris Saint-Germain and Manchester City are also in contention to submit a deal for the Portuguese, but none of these clubs would stand a chance if United decide to make a move.
2. Sergio Ramos
The Real Madrid veteran has always been a transfer target for Manchester United’s radar for some time now. Sergio Ramos will be an upgrade to the Manchester United defense. United have failed to hold their nerves during the crucial moments and as a result, they have been leaking goals in important matches. Everything like this could change with the January transfer of Sergio Ramos. Manchester United must be ready to shell out some huge money, probably in the range of $45 million to make this deal possible. Ramos would also prove out to be a leader in the United Dressing room.
3. Pepe
Manchester United are reportedly planning up a bid to complete the transfer of Real Madrid and Portugal centre-back Pepe according to many sources in Spain.
The Red Devils are currently lacking options at their defense this season after most of their players suffered injuries this season. Fichajes.net have claimed that the red devils are also considering Pepe as an alternative to Sergio Ramos.
The Portugal international is widely acclaimed for his aggressive playing style. As a result of his physicality, he would be a perfect match for the fast-paced and physical Premier League. He would also provide much-needed experience to Luis van Gaal’s side.
The 32-year-old has currently started only three Liga BBVA league matches this season, and he is expected to be transferred for $30 million. However, United are unwilling to pay such an amount.
4. Nicolas Gaitan
Nicolas Gaitan had nearly joined Manchester United in the summer transfer window before the club decided to change their attention to other players like Memphis Depay and Anthony Martial. It is reported that an initial fee of $35 million was agreed, however, the deal was broken down by Louis van Gaal. But things have changed now, and United are looking forward to signing the Benfica number ten during the January transfer window.
5. Antonio Griezmann
The Athletico Madrid ace striker has been a prime transfer target for Premier League rivals and defending Champions Chelsea. However, recent reports suggest that Louis Van Gall has also decided to join the pursuit for the clinical finisher. Rooney’s inconsistency in front of goal and Martial’s inexperience could be backed up to a large extent by a player of Griezmann’s abilities, and one shouldn’t be surprised if the deal is completed this January.
