Transfer news: Vincent Aboubakar and Ronaldo to swap places at Man United?
Vincent Aboubakar is reportedly on Manchester United's radar as they look to strengthen their attack in the January window... Ronaldo
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After a strong Africa Cup of Nations in 2022, finishing as the tournament's top scorer, and a fairly satisfactory World Cup (two goals), Vincent Aboubakar is reportedly on Manchester United's radar. According to last Sunday's Daily Mail, the Cameroonian is of great interest to the Red Devils' hierarchy, following the contract termination of Portuguese legend Cristiano Ronaldo.
Aboubacar-Ronaldo, a straight swap?
United are looking for a striker to replace Ronaldo, who officially became an Al-Nassr player on 30 December, to provide cover behind Rashford or Martial. The Daily Mail put forward Vincent Aboubakar as an option last Sunday. According to the same source, the 30-year-old forward would be available on loan, exactly the type of signing United want as they look to bolster their attack in this window.
After an incredible performance at the 2022 World Cup, the Cameroonian has shown the whole world his finishing quality. That is no doubt what caught the eye of Erik Ten Hag, the Manchester United manager. The top scorer at AFCON 2022 (eight goals) has scored four goals and provided two assists this season for his club. If the rumours about Vincent Aboubakar's move to Man United prove true, he and the Portuguese would replace each other at their former clubs respectively. It would be reminiscent of Odion Ighalo's move, a transfer of the same kind that nobody saw coming.
Ronaldo, a career ending unworthy of his talent
Barely used since the start of the season at Man United, CR7 has endured the worst spell of his career at his beloved club. When the Portuguese made his big return to United in 2021, it was with the intention of supporting his former club. Unfortunately for him, things did not go as planned. Less than a year after his return, the 37-year-old already wanted to leave the Red Devils, who were due to play in the Europa League, for a Champions League club. This stand-off with the club's hierarchy led to the departure of the five-time Ballon d'Or winner six months later. But one man's loss is inevitably another's gain, as this could reopen the door to Europe for Vincent Aboubakar, the prolific marksman of the Indomitable Lions.