According to a report from David Ornstein of The Athletic, Cristiano Ronaldo has alerted Manchester United of his desire to leave this summer if the right offer comes in. A number of top clubs have already started circulating with the Portuguese legend aiming to compete for trophies as he nears the end of his prime years.
Cristiano Ronaldo Open to Leaving Manchester United
Interested Parties
The Athletic names Chelsea, Bayern Munich, and Napoli as interested clubs. Todd Boehly has reportedly held talks with agent Jorge Mendes with his club interested in a number of attacking options this off-season. The London side’s new owners have promised Thomas Tuchel news players and a massive war chest this summer, some of which could easily go towards the 37-year-old.
Read More: Chelsea Transfer Budget Revealed With Thomas Tuchel Promised Up To Six Summer Signings
German giants Bayern Munich are a viable option as they may need to replace Robert Lewandowski, who is angling for a move to Barcelona, and are always competing at the highest level.
Cristiano Ronaldo told Man United he wants to leave this summer as he wants to see more ambition. Man Utd are still hopeful of keeping CR7, but aware of decision. 🚨🇵🇹 #Ronaldo
Cristiano has no agreement with any other club. Mendes explored options for weeks and will continue. pic.twitter.com/VRji13zrz0
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 2, 2022
Different Aims
After his high-profile return to Manchester United, the former Real Madrid man scored 24 goals in all competitions but could not fire the Red Devils into the Champions League. At 37, Ronaldo knows that the clock is ticking on his physical prime and he wants to play in the Champions League and compete for trophies before it’s too late.
Read More: Manchester United Top Priority Transfer Revealed
This desire contrasts that of Manchester United, who are in for a clear rebuild under Erik ten Hag. This is a team in need of a rebuild rather than a side that could compete for titles. With no signings made yet in this window and no clear striker on hand (a situation worsened by a Ronaldo departure), the Portuguese forward sees the writing on the wall for the coming season and has bigger ambitions than the Manchester side can match.
