Man United identify Ronaldo replacement - he's been dubbed "one of the best in the world"

Man United have identified a replacement for Cristiano Ronaldo in the upcoming transfer window, according to reports.

Ronaldo has dominated footballing headlines for much of the last week, following the fallout to his decision to walk down the tunnel prior to the full-time whistle in United's 2-0 win over Tottenham last Wednesday.

The Portuguese legend was not included in Erik ten Hag's squad to travel to Chelsea at the weekend.

In his absence, United drew 1-1 at Stamford Bridge, with Casemiro netting a 95th-minute header to equalise.

On Tuesday, Ten Hag held talks with Ronaldo in an attempt to smooth over relations after the tunnel incident.

The 37-year-old has since been pictured in training, suggesting that he may be in contention for Thursday's Europa League clash against Sheriff Tiraspol at Old Trafford.

However, his contract expires at the end of the season, and there is no indication that either club or player want to renew it. Therefore, the Red Devils are on the lookout for replacements - and they may have found the ideal candidate.

Man United keen on Bayer Leverkusen star

According to the Daily Mirror, Man United and Ten Hag have drawn up a three-player shortlist to replace Ronaldo up front.

It is claimed that the Dutchman wants a more traditional number nine, with the report citing Joao Felix in particular that the Red Devils carry less interest in.

The three-player shortlist consists of Lille's Jonathan David, Lyon's Moussa Dembele and Bayer Leverkusen's Patrik Schick.

Schick is perhaps the most intriguing option, given his sensational form on the big stage at Euro 2020.

The Czech Republic marksman was the joint-top goalscorer at the tournament, with five goals. Coincidentally, he shared the Golden Boot award with Ronaldo himself, who starred for Portugal.

Schick also scored the Goal of the Tournament, netting against Scotland with a sensational strike from the halfway line.

Returning to the domestic scene, the striker stayed at Leverkusen in the summer of 2021, despite interest from elsewhere. He went on to score 24 goals in just 27 Bundesliga games, further establishing his reputation as one of the top strikers in European football.

It is a verdict shared by Leverkusen chief Rudi Voller. Speaking after the striker signed a new contract in May, Voller said (quotes via TeamTalk): "For me, Patrik Schick is currently one of the best centre-forwards in the world.

"He knows that we have great team-mates who can play balls from all positions, and who can develop his strengths to the full."

Man United fans will hope that Schick can carry on his incredible form if he signs for the club. However, they may face late competition, with Newcastle credited with an interest in the striker.