Man United ‘make clear Cristiano Ronaldo transfer plan’ after sensational return mooted

Man United will not consider the possibility of a return to Old Trafford for Cristiano Ronaldo despite recent suggestions they could be interested.

The 41-year-old is currently on strike at Al-Nassr and is refusing to play over disagreements surrounding the club’s transfer policy compared to their rivals.

As a result, reports have claimed a return to Europe could be in line for the legendary forward, with a third spell in the Premier League also being tipped.

However, former Man United chief scout Mick Brown told Football Insider that there is “no chance” of Ronaldo making a sensational return to the Red Devils.

Not only did he leave Old Trafford under a cloud after being heavily critical of the facilities following his last spell, but he would not fit into the club’s transfer plans.

Man United CEO Omar Berrada and co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe
Credit: Imago

Man United rule out Cristiano Ronaldo return

Football Insider revealed on 6 February that Ronaldo could push to leave Al-Nassr in similar style to his departure from Old Trafford under Erik ten Hag.

Should he move on, there will be no shortage of interest in his signature given his legendary status, but a return to the Premier League with Man United is almost impossible.

No way,” Brown told Football Insider.

“It won’t happen, there are a number of reason why it won’t, they aren’t even going to consider it and to be honest I don’t think Ronaldo will either.

“When he left before, I think that damaged the relationship a little bit because of everything that went on with the manager and how critical he was of the club, rightly or wrongly.

“I don’t see any world in which Ronaldo comes back to Man United, even if he does leave Saudi Arabia.

“There will be other clubs in for him because of who he is and all of that, so I’m sure he’ll get a move if that’s what he wants, but it won’t be to Man United.”

What next for Ronaldo after Al-Nassr bust-up?

With Man United ruled out as a potential destination, and Ronaldo still sidelined in the Saudi Pro League, his next steps are not as clear as he may have hoped.

Brown told Football Insider that Ronaldo could leave Al-Nassr for free, and is angling for his contract to be terminated as a result of his refusal to play.

That would facilitate a return to Europe, given there are doubts about whether any club would be able to afford to pay his wages alongside what would be a hefty transfer fee.

Man United
Credit: Imago

The Portugal international, who is chasing an historic 1000th career goal and currently sits on 961, is already believed to be eyeing up his next destination.

Ronaldo has widely been linked with a return to one of his former clubs, with Sporting CP the favourites as any links with a return to Man United have been rubbished.

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