Cristiano Ronaldo asks to leave Manchester United – a transfer blow for Erik ten Hag

Cristiano Ronaldo and David de Gea of Manchester United
Cristiano Ronaldo and David de Gea of Manchester United

Cristiano Ronaldo has requested to leave Manchester United if a suitable offer arrives this summer, according to reports.

The Portugal international who only joined Manchester United last summer from Juventus 12 months ago is thought to be interested in a move away from Old Trafford, news that will come as a hammer blow to Erik ten Hag, who wants the player to form part of his team. 

Although the Red Devils endured a tough campaign last time out, Ronaldo was a shining light as he scored 24 goals across all competitions. He was thought to be keen on staying at the Premier League club this season.

But according to The Times, the 37-year-old is ready to leave Old Trafford behind should a suitable offer come in.

According to the report, Ronaldo wants to play in the Champions League; something United can’t offer him after finishing sixth in the Premier League table last term.

The five-time Balon d’Or winner has been involved in the competition for 19 years and is the highest scorer in the tournament’s history, having scored 140 throughout his career.

Even at 37, he believes he has three or four years left of playing at the highest level and so will be interested in moving to a new club this summer.

Although Ronaldo’s affection for Man United remains as strong as ever, he no longer views his future at Old Trafford because of the ‘state of disrepair’ that engulfs the club.

Bayern Munich and Chelsea are two clubs who have already been in touch regarding a possible deal for the forward, but Man United have so far refused to entertain offers.