Manchester United have been ‘sounding out strikers’ in case Cristiano Ronaldo departs the club this summer, according to talkSPORT reporter Alex Crook.

The 37-year-old’s future remains shrouded in doubt after it was revealed he has informed the United hierarchy of his wish to seek pastures new ahead of next season.

What is the latest news involving Ronaldo?

Duncan Castles of The Times recently reported that Ronaldo has ‘asked to be allowed to leave’ Old Trafford for the second time in his career should a ‘satisfactory offer’ arrive.

It’s believed that a desire to play in the Champions League is the driving force behind the Portugal international’s request while the club’s limited activity in the transfer market is also a prominent factor.

ESPN have since claimed that Ronaldo’s agent Jorge Mendes has offered his client to Paris Saint-Germain, but they have turned the opportunity to sign him down as they don’t have enough space on their wage bill.

However, Castles now states that United are ‘making headway’ in their attempts to convince Ronaldo to stay put, meaning his exit is not a foregone conclusion.

What has Crook said about Ronaldo?

Ronaldo was United's top scorer last season, finding the back of the net on 24 occasions in 38 appearances across all competitions.

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And Crook has informed GiveMeSport that the 20-time English champions are already making contingency plans in the event that he does force his exit just 12 months after making his return.

He told GMS: “I know they've been sounding out strikers, but they have to really, just to prepare for the possible departure of Ronaldo.”

Who could Man Utd sign?

German outlet Sport Bild have disclosed that United are hoping to hijack Ajax’s attempts to sign Brian Brobbey’s from RB Leipzig as Erik ten Hag wants to be reunited with him.

Meanwhile, back in May, Italian outlet Sports Mediaset claimed the Red Devils were at the front of the queue for Napoli’s Victor Osimhen’s as they looked to replace Edinson Cavani.

And reliable Sky Germany journalist Florian Plettenberg has now revealed talks ‘have taken place’ between the representatives of Stuttgart’s Sasa Kalajdzic and United, who are said to be ‘very interested’.

Only time will tell if Ronaldo leaves, and if so, who Ten Hag replaces him with, but whoever it is will certainly have big shoes to fill.