Unhappy with his current club’s position, it looks like the 37-year-old is looking for a new adventure that can fulfill his desire to play in the Champions League.
United say they have no intention of selling but peace talks between the two sides have reportedly broken down this week with Ronaldo’s heart set on playing at the highest level while he still can.
But, despite being one of the greatest players to ever play the game, it seems Ronaldo’s options are limited.
There were many reports that Atlético Madrid were a potential destination, but not everyone at the Spanish club was happy with the possibility.
Ronaldo is a legend of Atlético’s arch-rivals Real Madrid and, although the club denies the potential transfer, his fans have expressed their displeasure at the prospect of signing the striker.
Supporters unfurled banners during a pre-season game against Numancia on Wednesday – one reading ‘CR7 not welcome’.
Bayern Munich were another option after selling star striker Robert Lewandowski, but that door now appears to be closed after Bayern CEO Oliver Kahn said the club had decided against pursuing the deal.
“We came to the conclusion that despite all the appreciation for Cristiano, he wouldn’t have matched our philosophy in the current situation,” Kahn told German magazine Sport Bild.
Manchester United clash
Ronaldo scored 24 goals in all competitions for United last season in what was an otherwise very disappointing campaign for the club; he fell far short of Champions League qualification and lacked any sense of identity.
New manager Erik Ten Hag has been tasked with turning the tide at the sleeping giant and has publicly stated that he is planning his life with Ronaldo.
“I’m looking forward to working with him. Cristiano is not for sale. He’s part of our plans. We want to succeed together,” the manager said earlier this month, despite Ronaldo missing out on all the pre-season tour due to family issues.
There’s no doubt that Ronaldo is capable of scoring goals, but it seems that his age and huge salary demands are factors that put the bigger clubs off a potential move.
Many also wonder if the Portuguese star is able to fit into different team philosophies, including Ten Hag’s demanding style of play.
As the season opener draws closer – United kick off against Brighton on August 7 – something will have to give in their clash with the Red Devils.
Fans will only have to hope that the latest transfer saga doesn’t harm his legacy at the club.
