Cristiano Ronaldo has been a regular fixture in the Real Madrid starting line-up since his big money move from Manchester United, back in 2009.
There is not much left for the Portuguese to achieve in the game and replacing him would be a really difficult task for the Los Blancos.
Let’s take a look at five possible candidates who can be considered for replacing the 32-year-old, who has amassed a whopping 406 goals, donning the Madrid jersey.
Paulo Dybala, Juventus
Real Madrid have been keeping tabs on the 23-year-old Argentine for quite some time, even during his stint with Palermo.
Dybala can prove to be a handful for defenders due to his quickness and agility. He also has a good eye for goal, which he has proven during his time in Italy.
Also, he can be deployed in a creative role due to his strong technical ability.
But the biggest assets to his game are his stamina and defensive contributions, which even Ronaldo lacks sometimes.
So getting him would be a perfect option for the club, but he won’t come easy as Juventus are likely to hold out for a huge asking price.
Eden Hazard, Chelsea
Eden Hazard is another player who has been under Madrid’s radar for a long time. But if reports are to be believed, it was Ronaldo who was actually against the club making a move for the 26-year-old.
Blessed with pace and the natural ability to go along with it, the Belgian can prove to be a nightmare for the opposition on his day. He also has a knack of scoring important goals, like he has done numerous times for his club and country.
Primarily used in the wings, Hazard is very quick on his feet and is an excellent dribbler like the Ronaldo of old, making him an adept replacement.
Neymar, Barcelona
A controversial candidate for Ronaldo’s spot would be the 25-year-old Brazilian, who currently plies his trade for Madrid’s archrivals Barcelona.
Neymar also has the ability to keep defenders honest, with his sublime dribbling skills and silky smooth touches. He is blessed with the pace to go along with his supreme technical qualities, which he has put into great use so far in his career.
A proven finisher, Neymar has the added advantage of having succeeded in Spain which makes him a viable possibility to be looked into.
But again the transfer fees and the element of controversy attached, could make it a near impossible move.
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Kylian Mbappé, Monaco
The French starlet is one of the most exciting young talents in Europe right now, after a stellar season with AS Monaco.
The 18-year-old scored 26 goals in just 44 appearances, guiding the team to the Ligue 1 title and the UEFA Champions League semi-final last season. Mbappé’s pace and style of play have earned him comparisons to France and Arsenal legend Thierry Henry.
But the main concern with him would be to see if he could live up to his potential and make a mark for himself on the world stage.
Marco Asensio, Real Madrid
There is also a high probability that Real Madrid could look upon one of their own starlets to step up to fill the shoes of their Portuguese talisman.
Marco Asensio would be a frontrunner in that regard, having already showcased his promise playing for the first team.
The 21-year-old is considered to be the next big thing in Spain, due to his ability with the ball and also his knack of coming up with really important goals in crucial games.
With time and increased exposure on the big stage, Asensio’s control and vision on the ball could be utilised by the club for future successes.
