Manchester United appear to have lost out in their efforts to sign Real Madrid star Sergio Ramos, after Los Blancos manager Rafael Benitez ruled out a move, reported the Daily Star.
“I have a lot of respect for Louis van Gaal, but Sergio will be staying with us,” the former Liverpool boss said.
“He is our player, our captain. I would like to see him (at the club) at the beginning of the season, because he’s a key player for us.”
If the Red Devils are unable to get their main target, then here are five other players who have been linked to the club that they could yet pursue…
SEE MORE
Manchester United transfer news
Chelsea transfer rumours
Liverpool play random friendly, win 7-0, Danny Ings scores hat-trick
5) Nicolas Otamendi, Valencia
United are already close to signing the 28-year-old according to the Metro.
Having been a key part of a defence that conceded only 32 goals in La Liga last time round, he could be perfect to shore up Louis van Gaal’s back line.
4) Raphael Varane, Real Madrid
After missing out on Ramos, the Premier League giants could move straight on to his teammate, according to the Daily Telegraph.
With the 22-year-old a full seven years younger than his fellow Los Merengues star, it may actually be a better long-term signing for van Gaal.
3) John Stones, Everton
Chelsea were the first to actively seek the 21-year-old’s signing, but the Red Devils and their local rivals Manchester City are also interested [Daily Mirror].
The England international would be a great addition, but the Toffees are yet to give any indication that they are prepared to sell the England international.
2) Ezequiel Garay, Zenit St. Petersburg
Arsenal are going to challenge United for the defender, according to the Daily Mirror, but there is still time for Louis van Gaal to make a move.
The 28-year-old could be an experienced option for the Red Devils, but how would he adapt to English football?
1) Antonio Rudiger, Stuttgart
The Germany international has recently suffered a serious knee injury [ESPN], so the Old Trafford outfit may want to wait and see how he recovers before committing any serious money to the player.
However, if not, they have been linked to one of the best young centre-backs in Europe [Daily Express] in the Stuttgart man and he could hold the fort for the Red Devils for years to come.