Manchester United transfer news roundup: David Beckham wants Cristiano Ronaldo to stay at Old Trafford; Red Devils backed to sign RB Leipzig forward, plus more
Manchester United ended another disappointing campaign without trophies. Interim manager Ralf Rangnick will be replaced by Erik ten Hag, who will have a monumental task at Old Trafford next season.
Meanwhile, David Beckham wants Cristiano Ronaldo to stay at the club. Elsewhere, Gabriel Agbonlahor has backed the Red Devils to sign a striker from RB Leipzig.
On that note, here’s a rundown of Manchester United’s top transfer stories as of May 11, 2022:
David Beckham wants Cristiano Ronaldo to stay at Old Trafford
Manchester United legend David Beckham wants Cristiano Ronaldo to stay at Old Trafford beyond the summer. The Portuguese has been the Red Devils’ top scorer this season, producing 24 strikes in all competitions, but faces an uncertain future.
Speaking to Sky Sports, Beckham paid tribute to the fans who stuck around during a difficult campaign. He said:
“I think there are changes to be made and changes that are happening, we have seen that. The end of the season was difficult. But it’s the end of the season, I’m sure a lot of fans are grateful for that because it’s been tough – full of ups and downs.”
He added:
“The players did what they could do best and so did the manager. I arrived at the stadium a few months ago, and every seat was filled so the fans still believe it; they’re supporting; they’re showing up for the team. That’s what United fans do. There aren’t many teams that have gone through what they have gone through in recent years and are still filling their stadium. There will be changes. “
Beckham then praised Ronaldo, expressing hope that he will stay for a few more seasons, saying:
“Obviously Cristiano is one of the best players of the last 15 years, along with Leo (Messi). To see him hopefully staying at United is important for the fans. It’s important for him – we all know at how much Man United means to him. He’s still doing what he does best, scoring goals. That’s what Cristiano does. Doing what he does at his age is really amazing, so I hope that will continue for another year or two.”
Manchester United backed to sign Christopher Nkunku
Former Aston Villa striker Gabriel Agbonlahor has advised Manchester United to sign Christopher Nkunku. The Frenchman has scored goals for RB Leipzig this season and is wanted at Old Trafford.
Speaking to Football Insider, Agbonlahor also warned the Red Devils not to overpay for their targets, saying:
“They have to (bring in a striker). I really like Nkunku; he is fast, accurate and can score any kind of goal. He looks like the kind of player they need. Man United need to be careful about the amount of money they spend on players. They don’t want to overpay because they’re desperate, but they might find themselves in that situation where they have to.”
He continued:
“They should do it early, but Erik ten Hag will come and think ‘I’ve got Rashford and Sancho here, two of England’s top stars; I have to make them play as much as possible”. The board will say they have the best players; he has to make the most of them.”
Nkunku has scored 34 goals and 19 assists in nearly 50 games across all competitions this season, making him one of the hottest strikers in the game.
Paul Pogba rejected Manchester City for personal reasons, says Alan Hutton
Former Scotland defender Alan Hutton believes Paul Pogba refused to move to Manchester City because of his Manchester United allegiance. The French midfielder is ready to leave Old Trafford when his current contract expires this summer.
Speaking to Football Insider, Hutton suggested Pogba join Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), saying:
“It doesn’t surprise me that they threw their hats in the ring. There is no doubt about his talent. I think, on a personal level, for him to make that move, thinking about his lifestyle going forward, how difficult it would be for them, just in life in general. That’s probably the sticking point because wages, and that wouldn’t be a problem.”
He continued:
“He struggled at Manchester United. Then going to see their rivals across town, I think, would be very difficult for him. It wouldn’t surprise me if you saw him go to PSG or someone like that. It makes more sense, I think, for him and his family.”
Pogba has registered just one goal and nine assists in all competitions this season.
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