According to rumors, Sporting Lisbon has contacted Cristiano Ronaldo in an effort to lure him away from Manchester United.
The superstar Portuguese player started his career with the capital club, and rumors about his potential future at Old Trafford have persisted. United’s dissatisfaction is rising as they struggle to make summer transfers after finishing sixth last season, which meant a year in the Europa League.
Ronaldo’s return was less than a year ago, and he is reportedly thinking about his future. He has expressed his desire to take part in the reconstruction of Manchester to Erik ten Hag, but only if he’s wanted.
The Sun on Sunday has reported that Sporting chiefs believe they can convince him to quit the Premier League club however and move back to Lisbon.
A source said: “Sporting know that Ronaldo loves winning trophies. 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 inquiries and let Ronaldo know they are interested if he wishes to leave United.”
In 2003, United paid Sporting around £12 million to sign Ronaldo. He later won the Ballon d’Or while playing for the Red Devils, and he has since enjoyed great success with Real Madrid and Juventus.
However, Dolores, his mother, has been a strong supporter of her son going back to his native country. She stated in a Portuguese podcast in September: “He has to come back. I already told him: ‘Son, before I die I want to see you return to Sporting’. ‘Let’s see…’, he said.”
Despite Chelsea’s interest, United recently reiterated their position that Ronaldo will not be moved this summer.
Owner of the Blues Todd Boehly is said to have discussed a move to Stamford Bridge with the player’s agent, Jorge Mendes.
As per Mirror, Top Old Trafford insiders are convinced that their No. 7 is going nowhere. They said: “Cristiano is not for sale. We want – and fully expect – him to be with us next season.”
Ten Hag has not been able to sign a single player so far this summer as his recruiting efforts are failing. The club’s foremost objective has been Frenkie De Jong, but Barcelona has persisted in pushing for a hard bargain. Jurrien Timmer, a defender for Ajax, had been linked, but he will stay in Amsterdam.