According to reports, Cristiano Ronaldo is returning to England to speak with Manchester United about his future.
Ronaldo has not reported for pre-season training and has yet to work under new manager Erik ten Hag. A family matter is mentioned as the reason for Ronaldo’s absence.
But The Athletic reports Ronaldo is expected in Manchester on Monday amid growing speculation surrounding his future at the club.
talkSPORT understands Ronaldo has already informed the Red Devils of his wish to leave this summer if a suitable offer arrives. Man United have made it clear their player is not for sale.
It’s not clear if he will train with the team on Tuesday, however, he’s expected to have a face-to-face conversation with manager Erik ten Hag in the coming days.
The report adds that it’s increasingly likely that Ronaldo will remain at Old Trafford but there’s still a lack of clarity about the situation.
Man United players were given Monday off after flying back from Australia but will report back for training on Tuesday ahead of their final two pre-season matches.
Ronaldo was heavily linked with Chelsea, Paris Saint-Germain, and Real Madrid but interest from these clubs has since cooled. Atletico Madrid is the latest club to have been linked with him.
The 37-year-old has 12 months left on the contract he signed to come back to Man United. There is also an option for a further year on the deal.
Ten Hag, speaking in Melbourne on July 18, said: “I am well informed, he also has also an option (of another year).
“Yes (he could stay beyond this season), but to be honest, of course, I have signed here for three years, but in football, it’s short-term as well. We have to win from the start. So I don’t look that far ahead.
“I have a strategy, it’s a process, it takes time but in the end, we have to make sure from the outset there is a winning team.”
Ronaldo had a successful first season back at Manchester United, finishing as the club’s top scorer in all competitions with 24 goals.
However, his efforts were unable to assist Man United to qualify for the Champions League, as they finished sixth in the Premier League.
On Sunday, August 7, they kick off their 2022/23 season with a trip to Brighton.
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