Man Utd face big offer for Erik ten Hag to sign ‘preferred Ronaldo replacement’ in January

Manchester United may have to pay a high price for Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting, as Bayern Munich is preparing to offer Cameroon forward a lucrative new contract. Erik ten Hag’s main aim to replace Cristiano Ronaldo in January is supposedly the 33-year-old, but he may be priced out of a move for the star as the Bundesliga champions want to keep him at the Allianz Arena.

Choupo-Moting emerged as a target for United this month as the club began to plan for life beyond Ronaldo. This was before the Portugal captain’s candid interview with Piers Morgan, which led to his contract being mutually terminated earlier this week. The quest for his replacement has subsequently increased, with the spotlight increasingly focused on the Bayern Munich star due to his involvement in the World Cup for Cameroon.

The forward is not a first-team regular for the Bundesliga winners, but he has done excellently when called upon. Despite playing only 852 minutes, he has scored 11 goals in 16 appearances across all competitions.

According to ESPN, Choupo-Moting was the club’s top target to replace the departing Ronaldo, and hopes were high that he may arrive in January on a cheap deal with his contract expiring at the end of the season. These aspirations, however, may be put on hold soon, as Bild reports that Bayern Munich is preparing to give him a new contract.

The player is paid roughly £3 million per year by the Bundesliga leaders, and they are willing to pay him more to keep him. Fresh talks are not likely to take place until February, giving United a window of opportunity to capitalize on the current position.

The 33-year-old is well-known to Premier League supporters, having previously spent the 2017/18 season on loan at Stoke City. Surprisingly, after his stint at the Bet365 Stadium, he went on to join PSG, with a move to Germany following.

Ronaldo’s departure from Manchester United was revealed on Tuesday after his second stint at the club turned sour. After the decision was announced, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner issued a statement emphasizing his affection for the club.

“”After discussions with Manchester United, we have mutually agreed to terminate our contract early,” Ronaldo stated. “I adore Manchester United and its supporters, and that will never change. However, it appears that the time has come for me to seek a new challenge.

“I wish the team the best of luck for the rest of the season and in the future.”