Reports this morning suggested that United could mount a £20million move for Depay if they are unable to lure Gareth Bale away from Real Madrid.
United's interest in Bale stems from a desire to find a player who can have a similar impact to Ronaldo, with Angel Di Maria falling to meet expectations despite his £60m price-tag.
And Van Stijn believes that Depay - who has been impressive for PSV in the Dutch Eredivisie this season - could surpass Ronaldo's feats.
Indeed, the talent spotter says 21-year-old Depay has developed better than Ronaldo had at a similar age.
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Cristiano Ronaldo left Manchester United for Real Madrid
If you compare him to a young Cristiano Ronaldo at the same age, then Depay has more strings to his bow. I like him better.
Ed van Stijn
He said: "You can't judge Depay on his technique.
"With him you look at what he's doing with that technique to utilise it as much as possible.
"For example, look how often he makes sure he finds himself in one-on-ones facing the goal. It all comes down to details.
"If you compare him to a young Cristiano Ronaldo at the same age, then Depay has more strings to his bow. I like him better.
"Ronaldo made many of the same mistakes at Manchester United as he did when he was 17."
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