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Daily Mirror
Daily Mirror
Sport
Samuel Meade

Man Utd consider turning to Cristiano Ronaldo's new team-mate in ironic transfer twist

Manchester United could turn to Vincent Aboubakar this month as they aim to fix their striker shortage.

The Cameroon international, who has recently been joined at Al-Nassr by Cristiano Ronaldo, could yet be the man whom the Red Devils turn to to fill the void left by the Portuguese star's sudden and controversial departure from Old Trafford.

Erik ten Hag is very much looking to bring in some more firepower this month to aid his side's push for the top four. United were unable to bring in a No 9 in the summer but, due to the sums spent, are looking at a short-term solution for the time being.

Anthony Martial is the club's only recognised striker and Aboubakar would help assist the Frenchman's workload as the season goes on. The 30-year-old has previously enjoyed success in Europe with the likes of Porto, where he underlined how prolific he can be, and is a left-field option, according to the Independent.

United are still fighting on several fronts and have several players on their attacking shortlist this month. Joao Felix is among those with the Atletico Madrid man falling somewhat out of favour in the Spanish capital. The LaLiga outfit are seeking a huge loan fee however, without the option to buy, which is likely to put off any potential suitor.

As a result United have turned their attention to Wout Weghorst, who is currently on loan at Besiktas from Burnley. The Red Devils are discussing the possibility with the Clarets of ending his Turkish spell early so that he can make the move to Old Trafford.

Erik ten Hag has highlighted the need to bring in attacking reinforcements. The Dutchman has continued to withdraw his French forward in an effort to manage his minutes.

He said: "There is a reason [Anthony Martial has been substituted in his last seven games]. It is because he cannot manage the load. This is why we are looking for another striker. It is not about us not relying on him. His physical load is not, at this moment, so high that he can play every third day a game of 90 minutes. So I have to manage that together with him.

"We are on a thin line at the moment because the qualities of Anthony Martial are so important right now to our game. His movements, his ball security, the pressing, let's not forget that. We need that profile to be a threat."

The Red Devils will play five times before the month ends, with those games coming in three competitions as Ten Hag looks to end United's lengthy trophy drought.

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