Chelsea have been linked with a move for Ronaldo
Manchester United have reportedly told Cristiano Ronaldo that he is not for sale after the Portuguese international was linked with a move to Chelsea.
As reported by The Athletic, new Blues owner Todd Boehly met with Ronaldo’s super-agent Jorge Mendes in Portugal last week, with the prospect of him making a move to Stamford Bridge this summer thought to have been among the subjects discussed.
It is thought that the former Real Madrid and Juventus forward is concerned about United’s lack of transfer activity so far this summer. Ronaldo, who is desperate for the Red Devils to be competitive at the highest level, wants the club to match his ambition by strengthening the squad.
The 37-year-old has 12 months left on the two-year deal he signed on rejoining United for a second spell last summer. While it is unclear if Thomas Tuchel and Chelsea will pursue to opportunity, the Red Devils intent to keep the prolific frontman at the club.
🚨 BREAKING: Chelsea owner Todd Boehly meets with Ronaldo's 🇵🇹 agent Mendes last week. Idea of Cristiano Ronaldo to Chelsea among subjects discussed. Its Unclear if Chelsea pursue a deal for the 37yo.🔵 #CFC #MUFC
(via @David_Ornstein🌕)
— Football Transfers (@Transferzone00) June 25, 2022
Man United desperate for Ronaldo to stay
However, as reported by the Mirror, high-level sources at Old Trafford have made it clear that Ronaldo – who scored 18 goals in 30 Premier League matches last season – is not leaving.
Despite his impressive personal campaign, the Red Devils endured a nightmare season and finished sixth in the table, 35 points behind city rivals and eventual champions Manchester City.
Ronaldo backs new boss Ten Hag
The Portuguese captain previously spoke about giving Ten Hag ‘time’ to succeed at Old Trafford, but insisted that he was ‘really happy’ that he was the club’s new manager.
“I was and still am very happy to be here,” Ronaldo said in a recent interview.
“I know [Ten Hag] did a fantastic job for Ajax and that he’s an experienced coach but we need to give him time and things need to change the way he wants.
“I hope we have success. I wish him the best. We are happy and excited. Let’s believe that next year we are going to win trophies. I believe that Manchester (United) will be where they belong. Sometimes it takes time, but I still believe.”
Related links:
- Cristiano Ronaldo’s mother weeps with joy after Portugal legend extends goal record
- Man United fan group target club’s London offices for latest Glazer protest
- Erik ten Hag played key role in Ralf Rangnick’s Man United departure
