Replacing Wayne Rooney: Possible Alternatives for Sir Alex Ferguson
Unless you have been on a trip to space or any other planet, you would have heard about a certain Wayne Rooney wanting his way out of the Old Trafford exit door.
Ever since this news broke, rumours of all sorts have surfaced as to where will Wayne Rooney end up? But this news also begs the question as to who will replace him at Old Trafford. Surely, Sir Alex Ferguson would be looking to secure a big name signing
when his star striker finally leaves.
Since the departure of Tevez and Ronaldo, United have not signed a ‘Big name’ player. Now, with Rooney’s departure inevitable, Bettor.com has compiled a list of possible alternatives for Sir Alex to consider. We also give our opinion as to who would be a
success or failure and the likelihood of the transfer going through.
1) Fernando Torres (Liverpool, 26):
The Spaniard has nothing to prove to the world apart from his fitness. His talent and class are unparalleled and when in form, the Liverpool man is the best striker on the planet along with David Villa. Lightning pace combined with clinical finishing were
the traits of the great Ronaldo (The real Ronaldo, if you know what I mean), which can pretty confidently be associated with the Liverpool star.
However, he is more unfit than a man victim of Nigel De Jong's flying kicks. If Manchester United can lure him from Anfield, which is highly unlikely, then Rooney’s departure could prove to be a blessing in disguise.
Likelihood: Highly Unlikely
2) Sergio Aguero (Atletico Madrid, 22):
You might be thinking WHAT? Is this guy still with athletic? He was supposed to be playing for Chelsea or rather Milan and what not? It seems like a lifetime since the transfer rumours first surfaced with one of Europe’s elite for the Argentine. However,
to the credit of Atletico Madrid, they have kept their star striker.
But the attraction of Old Trafford might be too much for 22 year old to turn down. Aguero certainly is one of the hottest young strikers on the planet and his style of play would mean that he would be a like for like replacement for Rooney.
If Rooney leaves in January, Manchester United might have to wait until the summer to get their man as Atletico would be unwilling to let their hit man leave at mid season. But, a deal for the argentine could prove to be huge success for all three parties;
both clubs and the player.
Likelihood: Unlikely
3) Karim Benzema (Real Madrid, 22):
Manchester United boss has never hidden his admiration for the French striker. He has been linked with United for the past two years with Sir Alex clearly a big fan of the Frenchman’s ability.
Benzema’s move to Madrid hasn’t turned out as was expected and the striker has struggled to hold down a regular spot in the Madrid’s star studded line-up. A move could well be on the cards. Benzema would welcome the opportunity to play regular football under
the guidance of Sir Alex Ferguson.
With Rooney being heavily linked with the Madrid giants, there is good chance for United to ask for a player plus cash deal involving Karim Benzema. The possibility of this move happening in January is higher than ever, now that Rooney has made his intentions
clear.
Likelihood: Highly Likely
4) Javier Pastore (Palermo, 21):
The man of the moment, Javier Patore has been linked with almost every big club recently. The argentine has all the ingredients to go on and become a truly great player. However, it is unlikely that he will be able to achieve that while at Palermo.
A move to a big club is on the cards, it’s only a matter of time before he finally decides to make the big move.
The versatile attacker can play both in midfield and in the hole behind the front man. He might not possess the goal scoring ability of Wayne Rooney but his versatility and creativity might be enough to persuade the United boss to make a bid for the Argentine.
Likelihood: Unlikely
5) Luis Suarez (Ajax, 23):
The Uruguayans' World Cup form showed why so many clubs in Europe are after his signature. The striker is another player who could find it easy to settle into the culture of Manchester United. Like Aguero, Suarez is an all action player who is not only a
prolific goal scorer but also has the ability to carve out goal scoring opportunities for his team mates.
Ajax is in need of money and United will have some to spend. It would be the right time for the Uruguayan to move to Old Trafford and take the step to the next level.
Likelihood: Likely
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