Manchester United transfer news: Cristiano Ronaldo, Gareth Bale and Neymar top 'elite' shortlist

Robert Lewandowski and Harry Kane also on the shortlist

Tom Sheen
Friday 11 December 2015 04:21 EST
Comments
The two most expensive players in the world will both be on show in France over the next month
The two most expensive players in the world will both be on show in France over the next month (Getty Images)

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

Manchester United are working on potential deals for one of five shortlisted superstars, according to reports.

Despite spending nearly £300million in less than two years since taking charge at Old Trafford, Louis van Gaal and the club's hierarchy want to add a genuine star, according to The Times.

Real Madrid pair Cristiano Ronaldo and Gareth Bale and Barcelona rival Neymar are the prime targets for United, but Bayern Munich striker Robert Lewandowski and Harry Kane of Tottenham Hotspur are also on the shortlist.

United are said to have put in 'considerable' work on the first three.

However, the club are said to realise that bringing one of Ronaldo, Bale or Neymar to Old Trafford will be difficult, because of the demands of Premier League football.

"They know if they play in La Liga they can score 40 or more goals, but in the Premier League you’re probably looking at 20 to 25," a senior United source is quoted as saying.

The difficulties endured by Angel Di Maria, the British record signing who lasted just a season at the club, also makes elite level players in their prime think twice.

Ronaldo is the only Premier League player to ever win the Ballon d'Or, picking up the award in 2008 in a season in which he scored 42 goals in 49 matches and Sir Alex Ferguson's title winning team also beat Chelsea in the Champions League final.

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in