Erik ten Hag’s first pre-season at Manchester United gets underway tomorrow (June 27) and he would have liked to have introduced a few fresh faces by then but unfortunately, the club is yet to complete a signing this summer.
That has reportedly left Cristiano Ronaldo frustrated, with reports earlier this week suggesting that United’s lack of transfer activity has concerned the 37-year-old.
Those claims were quickly followed up on by other outlets, with reports emerging on Saturday that Chelsea owner Todd Boehly has held talks with Ronaldo’s representatives to explore a possible more.
Now, another club has joined the party. Sporting Portugal, Ronaldo’s boyhood club, have reportedly made contact with the forward as they gauge his interest in completing a fairytale comeback.
That’s according to The Sun, who add that Ronaldo could be about to rejoin the Lisbon side after they sounded him out over a move.
Read more: Derby County striker ignores calls from Ten Hag and McClaren ahead of Crystal Palace transfer
As per the report, the Portuguese giants believe they could convince Ronaldo to rejoin them despite the former Real Madrid star telling Ten Hag he is open to staying.
A source is cited in the report: “Sporting know that Ronaldo loves winning trophies,” they are quoted. “That looks a long way away at United at the moment and time is running out for Ronaldo.
“So what better way to finish his career than move back home and play in Portugal. It’s a strong league and a great lifestyle. Senior officials have made enquiries and let Ronaldo know they are interested if he wishes to leave United.”
SN’s verdict…
United will be keen to avoid a scenario where they are left with only Anthony Martial left as their senior striker and should Ronaldo depart this summer, that would be the case.
The Old Trafford club’s interest in Darwin Nunez was widely documented but after missing out on the Uruguayan, not many forwards have been linked with a move.
United are adamant that Ronaldo will remain for the final year of his contract and Ten Hag will likely already have made plans with him spearheading United’s attack.
With pre-season getting underway in less than 24 hours, it would be in everyone’s interest to clear matters up once and for all. Ronaldo making his commitment to United public would be a good start.
