United have been placed in a very difficult position by the wantaway striker, given there are very few proven goalscorers on the market right now
Cristiano Ronaldo’s bid to secure a transfer this summer could force Manchester United into a sudden change of plan.
The Portugal international has asked the club to accept any satisfactory offer after declaring his determination to play in the Champions League.
United insist he is not for sale and expect him to see out the final 12 months of his contract – but his absence from their travelling party for the tour of Thailand and Australia for "family reasons" adds to the uncertainty surrounding his future.
And if he is successful in convincing United to sell, it will force Erik ten Hag to bring forward his plans to sign a top class centre forward by 12 months.
While United had targeted Darwin Nunez, their failure to beat Liverpool to the Uruguayan saw them decide to wait until next summer to look for a replacement for Ronaldo.
One of the biggest issues is a budget that has to be focused on other parts of the squad, with around £55 million ($65m) needed to land top target, Frenkie de Jong.
United are hoping to sign Ajax winger, Antony, for around £50m ($60m) – and team-mate, Lisandro Martinez, could cost in the region of £40m ($48m).
It would take vast amounts to sign the calibre of striker required to replace Ronaldo, while the lack of credible options on the market is another issue.
Consequently, Ten Hag will have to weigh up both internal and external striking solutions if he can’t convince his star man to stay for one more season…
Getty ImagesPaulo Dybala
Solskjaer wanted the Argentina international back in 2019 – but a move fell apart for a number of reasons, with United put off by his wage demands, while Dybala also made it clear he wanted to stay at Juventus.
That same summer, United were rejected by Eriksen, who has now agreed a three-year deal as a free agent.
Could this be the summer to go back in for another missed target? Especially as Dybala would also be free…
AdvertisementGetty ImagesHarry Kane
Has long been high on United’s wanted list and would be precisely the profile of player to fill the enormous boots vacated by Ronaldo.
Kane wanted to join City last season, only for Spurs to hold firm and refuse to sell.
It’s highly unlikely Tottenham chairman, Daniel Levy, would be any more open to selling now – particularly after Conte has guided them back into the Champions League.
It is also debatable whether Kane would see United as a better bet to achieve his ultimate ambition of major trophies.
Getty ImagesNeymar
Another player that United have followed for years.
Ex-executive vice chairman, Ed Woodward, was desperate to bring the Brazilian to Old Trafford – but there has been little sign of his successor, Richard Arnold, focusing on such marquee signings.
There are also serious doubts as to whether he would suit Ten Hag’s high-pressing system – much like Ronaldo.
But he would be a spectacular statement in Arnold's first transfer window.
GettyTammy Abraham
Ignited his career in Italy with Roma under Jose Mourinho, scoring 27 goals last season in all competitions.
There was a feeling among Chelsea fans that he was let go too soon – and England manager, Gareth Southgate, believes he could be the natural cover for Kane.
Still questions over his finishing at the highest level – and whether he could replicate his Serie A form in the Premier League.