Man United told to U-turn on Cristiano Ronaldo swap deal after journalist’s update – pundit
Paul Robinson has suggested Man United should explore a swap deal involving Cristiano Ronaldo and Antonio Griezmann.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the former Spurs and England number one said the Red Devils must “maximise a deal” for Ronaldo, 37, this summer.
Ronaldo wants to leave Old Trafford for a Champions League club ahead of next season.
The Portugal international is widely reported to be of interest to Atletico Madrid.
According to The Athletic‘s Dan Sheldon and Laurie Whitwell (27 July), United are aware that Antonio Griezmann is available this summer but have ruled out a potential swap deal involving Ronaldo.
When asked by Football Insider if Erik ten Hag’s side should give a potential swap deal more thought, Robinson said:
“The problem is, Man United have got a huge asset tying up a lot of their room on the wage bill who doesn’t want to be at the club.
“They need to maximise a deal. They have to get the right deal for the club, whatever that may be.
“If they would like Griezmann, if that is the way the manager wants to play, it could work. That could be a way of moving Ronaldo on without incurring a huge financial loss. Griezmann is a top player.
“To lose Ronaldo and bring in Griezmann… I think they need an out-and-out number nine. I wouldn’t go into the season without one. It is a position that needs to be addressed.
“You cannot rely on [Marcus] Rashford and [Anthony] Martial.”
In other news, a pundit has claimed Man United may have to walk away from Frenkie de Jong deal after journalist’s update.