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Cristiano Ronaldo's record-breaking spell at the Santiago Bernabeu seems to be coming to an end.
Nine fruitful seasons have borne 450 goals, 4 Ballon d'Ors, 13 trophies that include 4 Champions league titles and some ridiculous individual records.
The Portuguese has etched his name among Los Blancos' greats, on par with the likes of Alfredo di Stefano and Raul.
Breakdown in contract talks has led to rumours of a possible exit. Ronaldo wants a contract that will make him the best-paid star in Europe. The Portuguese's demands for another lucrative contract have been turned down by president Florentino Perez.
With Ronaldo past his best at 33, it is time for Madrid to search for his replacement. Though his shoes will be impossible to fill in, here are 5 players who could prove to be worthy replacements.
#5 Lorenzo Insigne
The diminutive yet dynamic Italian has slowly become a consistent performer for Napoli. Insigne is normally deployed on the left of Sarri's 4-3-3, allowing him to cut him and shot or assist with his stronger right foot.
Nicknamed "Lorenzo II Magnifico", the Italian is extremely versatile and can play across the front line.
The 26-year-old has enjoyed a stellar season with 14 goals and the same number of assists as Napoli came agonizingly close to winning the Serie A.
Though not a major presence in the air, Lorenzo is capable of replacing Ronaldo at Real Madrid.
#4 Marco Asensio
Los Blancos already have a suitable replacement for CR7 in their team.
When Marco first signed for Real, for around €4m, he was relatively unknown. Now he is proving to be one of the best bargains in recent seasons.
Much like his Madrid teammates, Asensio thrives on counter-attacking football. Asensio can hold the ball well and has a good passing range. However, his long-range shooting is his standout ability.
Asensio has scored a wide range of superb long-range and solo goals. The 22-year-old widely expected to be a key player for Spain at the World Cup in Russia.
At just 22, Asensio has time on his side, though he has found minutes a little hard in a star-studded Galactico team.
Asensio will need to improve on his finishing, but his talent is unquestionable. The Spaniard can save Real millions on a Ronaldo replacement.
#3 Mohammed Salah
A no-brainer, the "Egyptian king" qualifies for merely being the Premier league "flavour of the year". Perez has targeted Bale and Ronaldo in recent years, and Salah could be the next one off to Spain.
Salah has enjoyed a stunning campaign with 44 goals to his name this season. 32 of those were in the English top flight, breaking the previous record. With 16 assists to go with his goal-scoring exploits, Salah is a well-rounded player.
A strong finisher and an excellent dribbler, Salah also has an excellent shot.
The 25-year-old has won the PFA and FWA player of the year awards, the Premier league Golden boot, as well as Liverpool's player of the year! Any fee for the Egyptian would likely be a world record one.
Though not similar in profile, Ron and Salah have one thing in common; a deadly eye for goal.
#2 Eden Hazard
Hazard has been a consistent performer for the Blues over the past six seasons, and in Perez, he has a long-term admirer.
Hazard is not prolific in front of goal but has several other excellent qualities. An excellent dribbler and passer, Hazard is a counter-attacking threat and offers some serious pace.
Though he has 2 Premier League titles to his name, a Champions league title has so far evaded him. Joining Madrid could fulfil his dream with Los Blancos having won it in the last three years.
A move would also further Hazard's quest for a Ballon d'Or and establish himself as a global superstar.
Should Los Vikingos come calling, Chelsea will struggle to hold onto their star player. The La Liga could be in for a Hazard-ous time!
#1 Neymar
The biggest name on this list, Neymar shares a strong resemblance to the Portuguese. They even share the same birthday.
It would be a dream come true for football fans to see the two as teammates. However, it is highly unlikely as both will demand huge salaries, and of course...the numero uno status.
Following his 222 million move to Paris, the Brazilian has set the Ligue 1 alight with 28 goals, 18 assists and moves that would leave even Sean Garnier impressed.
Neymar would add quality, pace and goals to the left wing along with Marcelo and is the type of signing Florentino Perez loves.
It would take a ludicrous fee, but Neymar is inarguably the best option available.
Let us know what you think about the list in the comment section below.
