Manchester United will absolutely move for a new striker during the upcoming January transfer window, according to Sky Sports reporter Dharmesh Sheth.

The Lowdown: Ronaldo exit causes havoc

Cristiano Ronaldo's time at Old Trafford has come to an end for a second time, with the Portuguese sensation sacked by the club after a recent interview criticising manager Erik ten Hag.

While he clearly wasn't the player he once was, his departure has still left a void in United's attack, with fewer options suddenly on show ahead of the second half of the season.

As the January window looms, it looks as though the Red Devils are about to delve into the market.

The Latest: New striker expected

That's certainly the opinion of Sheth, who told Give Me Sport that a new striker is on the agenda at Old Trafford:

"What is clear, is that Erik ten Hag has said last week that he does want to bring a forward player in. We’ve seen Cristiano Ronaldo leave the club, we thought that that was going to be the saga during the January transfer window, but they’ve managed to get all of that done and dusted before the transfer window opens.

"So, I think if they can find somebody, they are in the market to bring people in, there’s no question about that. All clubs will always be in that position, but it would have to be right, cost-wise.

"And that’s why there’s every chance that United won’t be bringing anyone in in the window."

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The Verdict: Simply has to happen

It is absolutely essential that United add a striker to their squad in January as the battle for a top-four finish hots up, as well as cup and European glory being on offer.

Failure to sign a new attacker would be negligent by the Glazers, with a lack of firepower on show with Ronaldo gone and Jadon Sancho seemingly frozen out for the time being.

It remains to be seen who could come in, and while it is important that United don't panic buy and waste money on a player, they must act fast and sign someone who can dovetail effectively with Marcus Rashford and Antony, as well as the likes of Bruno Fernandes and Christian Eriksen behind him.