Manchester United are likely to target Ajax forward Antony as they consider possible replacements for Cristiano Ronaldo, according to journalist Marcel van der Kraan.

The Dutch reporter believes that manager Erik ten Hag would probably look to sign a player he knows well, such as the Brazilian, who Ajax may still sell for below his €80m (£69m) valuation:

“Once Ronaldo does decide to go, it’s a very good option for Erik ten Hag. He knows him [Antony], knows he’s a top player, and had some cracking performances in the Champions League and big games in Holland. He’s always been electrifying. I think it would be a good choice. The fact Ajax have but that [price] tag on him, it doesn’t mean they expect to get that. They might accept £60m-£65m, surely affordable to Manchester United once Ronaldo’s wages are out the way.”

Antony certainly wouldn’t be a like-for-like replacement for Ronaldo, as he usually plays off the right flank rather than through the middle. Other teams, including Chelsea and Liverpool, have previously looked at him as they look to reinforce their options out wide.

However, ten Hag is said to be eyeing a versatile forward who can play in multiple positions, and Antony does have experience of playing on the left-side of a front three as well.

That does still leave the question as to who would play as the centre-forward. If Ronaldo does push to leave, it’s likely a number of strikers will also be offered to United as the club look to fill the gap left by the Portuguese superstar.