Manchester United are facing a transfer crisis. Star striker Cristiano Ronaldo wants out but replacing his goals is going to prove virtually impossible.
Ronaldo, 37, rejoined the Red Devils last summer following a move from Juventus.
Despite kicking his second Old Trafford coming off with a bang after netting a brace against Newcastle United, the Portugal international’s time back with United has not quite gone to plan.
Although Ronaldo has remained as sharp as ever – scoring 24 goals, in all competitions, last season, the club still appear to be going backwards.
Read more: Worry for Man United as Chelsea prepare to hijack De Jong deal with two player offer
Having failed to qualify for next season’s Champions League, it is understandable why United’s five-time Ballon d’Or winner is not thrilled at the prospect of playing in Europe’s second tier.
However, although rumoured to be braced for an audacious approach from domestic rivals Chelsea (90min), according to The Athletic’s Laurie Whitwell, the 20-time league winners believe they, with the help of manager Erik ten Hag, can convince Ronaldo to stick around.
Speaking about the fascinating situation Ronaldo and United find themselves in, Whitwell, who spoke on Thursday’s ‘Talk of the Devils’ podcast (as transcribed by The United Stand), said: “Cristiano Ronaldo hasn’t talked to Erik ten Hag yet.
“This is a crucial element to it. It’s someone else who’s communicated [his wishes to leave].
“Man United are kind of thinking that maybe talks with ten Hag could turn things around.”
