Five replacements for Wayne Rooney if Monaco move materialises

In light of Monaco’s intention to launch a move for Manchester United captain Wayne Rooney, which Coral brought you coverage of recently, we suggest exactly how Louis van Gaal may replace him, if he decides that a stint in the south of France with the rest of the rich and famous, is for him.

Monaco’s Russian billionaire owner Dmitry Rybolovlev has not given up hope that he can lure the 28-year-old to the club, even though he recently signed a new 5 1/2-year, £300K-per-week new deal to stay at Old Trafford.

Coral writers suggest five faces who could replace Rooney, whether like-for-like or otherwise, if he leaves in the next couple of years, with the likelihood that United, 14/1 with Coral to win the Premier League this term, will be able to at least recoup what they paid for him.

Adnan Januzaj
Starting in-house, although a different style of player, Januzaj has shown an abundance of potential in a Red Devils shirt since his promotion to first team duties under David Moyes. He needs to progress to the next level, however also requires the chance to do so. Should Rooney move on, the young Belgian may be the man to step into his shoes, as United’s ever-evolving system takes shape.

James Wilson
Having bagged a brace against Hull City in the Premier League already, under Ryan Giggs’ temporary stewardship last season, United’s 18-year-old striker has been tipped for big things. United have been criticised recently for not promoting enough youngsters into the first team, and this academy product has a bright future.

Julian Draxler
Schalke’s 21-year-old protege has been linked with a move to Arsenal, however he would effortlessly fit into the system at Old Trafford, and it is predicted that he could be the next leading star in German football. Any fee would be between £30m-40m, with rumours that he has a buy-out clause translating to £37m.

Harry Kane
United have developed a strong link with Tottenham in transfer dealings, having signed Dimitar Berbatov and Michael Carrick in recent years. Yet to really establish himself, Kane has shown he is capable of big things, with the 21-year-old attacker impressing in the Europa League this term.

Cristiano Ronaldo
It’s a rumour that just won’t go away. The Portuguese superstar, who moved to Real Madrid from United, has said he would like to end his career at the club that gave him his break. If Rooney does head to Monaco in a couple of years time, it could be perfect timing, and at least a short term solution to filling the void. At 31, he could still do a job.