Manchester United are ‘already exploring the market’ over a new striker following Cristiano Ronaldo’s exit, Fabrizio Romano reports.

The Lowdown: Exit confirmed

Ronaldo’s departure was officially confirmed by the Red Devils on Tuesday evening less than a week on from his uncensored interview with Piers Morgan.

The 37-year-old, who is currently at the World Cup with Portugal, is now a free agent after the player and club mutually agreed to go their separate ways.

The Latest: Romano’s update

Romano took to Twitter on Wednesday morning to share a transfer update following Ronaldo’s exit, saying that United will save around £17m as a result.

The transfer expert said that the club’s transfer plans have changed as they ‘are now already exploring the market to find a solution in January’ instead of the summer.

Romano explained (via Twitter):

"Manchester United will save around £17m as Cristiano Ronaldo agreed not to receive any pay off. #MUFC

Plan was to invest on new striker in July but Man Utd are now already exploring the market to find a solution in January."

[web_stories_embed url="https://www.footballtransfertavern.com/web-stories/latest-man-utd-news-6/" title="Latest Man Utd news!" poster="" width="360" height="600" align="none"]

The Verdict: Good move

It is good to see that United officials acted swiftly when it came to Ronaldo’s future, and looking at a January addition also appears to be the right call.

Erik ten Hag has just Anthony Martial as his only recognised centre-forward, although Marcus Rashford can also come in from out wide if required.

However, signing a replacement for Ronaldo in the New Year will definitely help, with the club still in four competitions when domestic action returns following the World Cup break.