Cristiano Ronaldo is said to have returned to England to discuss his future with Manchester United.
The Portuguese superstar has been in his homeland for family reasons in recent weeks, preventing him from playing in any of United’s preseason matches.
That situation has only fueled talks about the next stage of his career, with claims that he wants to leave Old Trafford this summer.
Erik ten Hag, the head coach, has stated on multiple occasions that the 37-year-old will remain in his first-team plans for 2022-23.
The latest statement made by Ten Hag was, “It’s the same as last week. Of course, concerning is maybe not the right word. I focus on the players who are there and they are doing really well.
“They are in good shape and I have further focus on that and develop that. I cannot wait for him to come in and then we will integrate him.”
According to David Ornstein of The Athletic, Ronaldo has returned to Manchester to try to resolve the issue.
As things stand, United are said to be unconvinced in their stance that Ronaldo is not for sale and will be part of Ten Hag’s squad this season.
Related: Erik Ten Hag ‘Cannot Wait’ for Cristiano Ronaldo Return To Man Utd
However, talks are expected to take place in the following days, with the intent of preventing speculation from extending into the end of the summer transfer window.
Ten Hag is excited to finally meet with the striker in a bid to persuade him to commit to United, according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano.
Super-agent Jorge Mendes is also reported to be working hard to find a solution, as Ronaldo’s options are now limited.
Atletico Madrid, Ronaldo’s previous club Real Madrid’s neighbours and rivals, are reportedly considered the frontrunners for the star should a transfer become more possible.
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