Erik ten Hag insists Cristiano Ronaldo still needed at Man United despite Antony arrival

Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag insists Cristiano Ronaldo still has a vital role to be play at Old Trafford despite the imminent arrival of Antony.

The Portuguese veteran continues to be linked with a move away from the club but – despite the likes of Atletico Madrid, Sporting Lisbon and Chelsea having been mentioned as possible destinations – no deal appears close.

United have improved their attacking options having agreed an £81.3 million deal for Ajax winger Antony on Tuesday.

But Ten Hag says that signing is an essential boost to United’s attack ahead of the club's Europa League campaign that begins next week, rather than any sign that Ronaldo will be allowed to move this week before the transfer window closes.

“It is clear, we need quality players,” said the Dutch coach ahead of United's Premier League game at Leicester City on Thursday.

“You need more and to cover all the games to keep the consistency going, that’s what we strive for.

“Especially from offensive players, they are quicker fatigued because they have to run more and run with higher intensity. We expect that from them and our way of play.

“We need numbers there, we need not just quantity but quality.”

United have also been linked with a move for Martin Dubravka and Ten Hag does not believe there will be any more arrivals if they seal deals for the Newcastle United goalkeeper and Antony.

Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag speaks to Cristiano Ronaldo before his introduction as substitute against Southampton. AFP

The club have already spent close to £230m this summer brining in Tyrell Malacia, Lisandro Martinez, Christian Eriksen and Casemiro.

“Firstly I have to sign [Antony],” said Ten Hag. “There’s an agreement between the clubs but the