Manchester United: Erik ten Hag shortlists two players to replace Ronaldo

Erik ten Hag is not playing games with Manchester United.

Manchester United will spend no time mourning their losses with Cristiano Ronaldo. The Portugal international left the club on mutual agreement, after he shocked the world by speaking out against the poor running of the club in the media. Still, Erik ten Hag has already lined up two players he would like to see signed to replace him. Ruthless, but necessary.

The two players Erik ten Hag would like to sign are Cody Gakpo of PSV and Rafael Leao of AC Milan, according to ESPN. Both players are shining in the World Cup at the moment with Gakpo scoring twice for Netherlands and Leao scoring once for Portgual.

The name on everyone’s lips right now, though, is Cody Gakpo. Fans on social media are raving about him and the possibility of seeing him in the Premier League is a promising one as far as Manchester United are concerned.

Showcasing his talent on the world stage at only 23 years old, he is a player that will resonate with Ten Hag well. Having a positive mental attitude and a willingness to succeed, he will learn and prosper well under the tactician, especially with the wealth of experience at Old Trafford currently.

Whatever bit of business they do, United will have to be quick about it. It is thought there has been long-standing interest with these two players, so to leave the business until after the World Cup will only frustate fans, especially with the uncertainty of the board. Long story short, these two talents won’t get any cheaper.

Erik ten Hag is the right man for Manchester United in the long-term. He just needs the right people above him and a board that will back him in the transfer window. Only time will tell if this is the case.

Who would you like to see Manchester United sign in January?