Five alternatives to Ronaldo for United to consider.With Manchester United known to be working on a sensational deal to re-sign Cristiano Ronaldo from Real Madrid, CaughtOffside looks at five other similar players who could actually make better signings for the Red Devils.
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There are a number of top class attackers out there who might be available for cheaper than the Portuguese star, who at 29 is possibly past his peak and a risky signing based more on sentiment than logic.
See below for five other big names United should consider before splashing the cash on Ronaldo.
5) Pedro (Barcelona)
Supposedly unsettled at Barcelona, Pedro could be available this January after attracting interest from both Liverpool and Arsenal. The Spanish international has been a key player in his highly successful career at the Nou Camp, and his eye for goal could make him a great alternative to Ronaldo, available for a fraction of the price.
4) Antoine Griezmann (Atletico Madrid)
A summer signing by Atletico Madrid, it may prove tricky luring away Antoine Griezmann anytime soon, but United would be wise to take a good look at the highly promising young Frenchman, who showed Ronaldo-like ability to score regularly from the flanks with his previous club Real Sociedad last season.
3) Arjen Robben (Bayern Munich)
A player long linked with a move to Manchester United, Bayern Munich winger Arjen Robben could also be a great addition by the Red Devils, particularly as he has performed well under Louis van Gaal before, becoming a key player for the United boss during his reign as Netherlands manager.
2) Juan Cuadrado (Fiorentina)
A player who might fit in better into van Gaal’s 3-5-2 system, Fiorentina winger Juan Cuadrado could be an excellent signing for United after his recent strong run of form. The exciting Colombian international was one of the best wide-players in Europe last season, and impressed for his country at this summer’s World Cup. Barcelona are also known to be keen on the 26-year-old, but the Red Devils should definitely step up their interest in him, as he would likely only cost as much as £36m, nearly half of Ronaldo’s reported asking price.
1) Marco Reus (Borussia Dortmund)
One of the best attacking midfield players in the world at the moment, Borussia Dortmund star Marco Reus may be available for just £20m next summer when his rumoured release clause comes into effect, and there’s no doubt that at that price he would make a far better signing than Ronaldo. The German international has his best years ahead of him still, and looks a superbly complete player capable of filling in a number of different roles on the flanks, upfront or behind the main striker. Arsenal, Liverpool, Real Madrid and a host of other clubs will surely be chasing him as well, however, which could prove problematic for United.