Cristiano Ronaldo: ‘Something is seriously wrong’ at Man United after source’s £25m reveal – pundit
Noel Whelan has insisted “something is seriously wrong” at Man United if they axe Cristiano Ronaldo in order to save on his £25million-a-year wages.
The former Leeds striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, claimed the 37-year-old all-time great is “paying for himself” through marketability and shirt sales.
A Man United source has told Football Insider (31 March) that the expectation at the top of the club is that Ronaldo will leave at the end of the season.
The former Real Madrid man is likely to depart on a free transfer, handing United a £25million-a-year wage bill saving.
Football Insider revealed last month (23 March) that Porto are looking to lure Ronaldo back to his homeland this summer.
When asked if the money recouped from the striker’s wages could help Man United in the transfer market, Whelan told Football Insider‘s Russell Edge: “We’re talking about the richest club in the world.
“If they can’t afford £25million to put in the transfer budget, then something is seriously wrong.
“Fans of that club want to see Ronaldo. We saw the fuss when he signed, the shirt sales went through the roof.
“He’s not been signed solely for this quality that he possesses, but also for the marketability around the world.
“Man United are probably making a profit from having him, never mind those £25m wages. He’s paying for himself.
“I’d be really surprised if they let him go.”
Ronaldo has netted 18 goals in 32 games since his return to Old Trafford last summer.
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner is contracted until 2023 – with Man United having the option to extend his stay a further year.
In other news, pundit claims the Red Devils could block 24-year-old’s exit this summer.