After Manchester United accrued their record-low points total in the Premier League last season, taking charge and turning the team's fortunes around was always going to be a challenge for new manager Erik ten Hag.
And the Dutchman's task has been complicated further this week, following the bombshell news that Cristiano Ronaldo wants to jump ship at Old Trafford just a year into his second stint at the club.
For Ten Hag, a wantaway player of such immense profile is far from ideal as he continues getting ready for the new season. Factor in the club's frustration in the transfer market - most notably the slow progress in pursuit of Frenkie de Jong - and it means preparation has been far from ideal for the new campaign.
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Ferdinand names Ronaldo replacement
Former United centre-back Rio Ferdinand thinks the club will only let Ronaldo depart if they can sign a high-class replacement in the form of Robert Lewandowski.
Like Ronaldo, Lewandowski is seeking a change of scenery this summer, having made it clear he wants to leave the Allianz Arena. Barcelona have been most frequently linked, although Bayern seem reluctant to sell to the cash-strapped Catalans.
Ferdinand believes that United could be an ideal destination for the Poland international, who has established himself as arguably the best centre-forward on the planet in recent years.
"The only other person who could fill into those shoes, who I'd have confidence in, who's possibly capable of doing it, is [Robert] Lewandowski," he said. "But he looks like he has his heart set on Barcelona if they can get that deal done."
"The only way I see it happening is if United can get Lewandowski and then Ronaldo could go then. That's the only way it happens and, if United can't get a ready-made replacement to bang in 20 or 25 goals next season outside of Lewandowski or somebody [else] gettable, I don't see it being a deal that gets done, not at all."
Read the story in full HERE.
Martinez ready to force transfer
Lisandro Martinez is said to be ready to force his way out of Ajax in order to join Manchester United.
The Red Devils and Arsenal have both been linked with a move for the centre-back, who is said to be valued in the region of £40 million by the Eredivisie giants. However, as of yet a successful bid has not been lodged and Martinez remains an Ajax player.
It would still appear the player is ready to play his part in making a transfer happen, as he's keen to join United and continue working with Ten Hag.
"Sources close to the Martinez camp say the South American star is losing patience with Ajax, who had hoped to encourage a bidding war between United and Arsenal, with the Gunners also chasing the defender," it's reported, with the player said to be keen for a solution in the next 48 hours.
Read the story in full HERE.
Mata reacts to Fernandes' new number
Juan Mata has reacted to Bruno Fernandes taking his old jersey at Manchester United - the number eight.
Fernandes endured a challenging term in 2021-22, as he failed to reach the heights he had previously in his Red Devils career. The Portuguese will be hopeful a change of manager a higher profile shirt number than his former number 18 will provide fresh impetus going into the new season.
Mata had worn the number during his eight-year stint at Old Trafford and responded on Twitter when asked what he thought of Fernandes being the new incumbent by David de Gea.
"He told me he was sad the day he knew we weren't going to keep playing together... but I think he was quite happy @B_Fernandes8 #Number8” alongside a crying laughing face, a long nose emoji and a shrug."
Read the story in full HERE.
