Cristiano Ronaldo ‘insists’ on Manchester United departure amid Atletico interest
The Portuguese forward is desperate for Champions League football next season
Cristiano Ronaldo continues to ‘insist’ on a move away from Old Trafford this summer amid interest from Atletico Madrid, according to reports in Spain.
Ronaldo has yet to rejoin his teammates for pre-season, despite being due back two weeks ago, and was omitted from United’s travelling squad to Bangkok and Australia.
Erik ten Hag was quick to deny that a departure was in the works, stressing that his key asset is not for sale this summer.
“Cristiano Ronaldo is not for sale, he is in our plans”, he told the media. “He’s not with us due to personal issues. We are planning with Cristiano Ronaldo for this season, that’s it”.
The Dutchman then added that he is “looking forward to work with him”, allaying potential fears that the 37-year-old may not be in Manchester come transfer deadline day.
However, while United are steadfast in their unwillingness to sell the veteran, Spanish outlet AS report that the star ‘insists’ on a departure, and that Atletico Madrid could be one destination for the former Real Madrid forward.
Complicated by finances
However, such a move is set to be complicated and could well not take place until towards the end of the summer, ‘because the reality is that the rojiblanco club cannot afford an operation like this right now, mainly due to economic constraints’, they add.
But, with Chelsea, Bayern Munich and Juventus all out of the running to sign the forward, and Ronaldo keen to remain in the Champions League next season, it could be his only option this summer. So, he may have to wait.
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