Real Madrid is apparently planning a spectacular swoop to bring Cristiano Ronaldo back to the Bernabeu from Manchester United.
Despite playing on a poor team, Ronaldo has been the standout player for United this season, scoring 23 goals, including 17 in the Premier League.
According to the Mirror, the 37-year-old Portuguese star’s future at Old Trafford is in doubt after only one season back at the club he left for Real Madrid for a then world record cost of £80 million in 2009.
According to the article, Real are becoming increasingly interested in reconnecting with the midfielder, who is under contract with United until next season with a one-year extension option.
United is expected to undergo huge changes under new manager Erik ten Hag, and it is believed that Ronaldo is unsure of his role in the upcoming transformation at Old Trafford.
Under interim manager Ralf Rangnick, Ronaldo has been a cornerstone of the side, but Ten Hag is thought to be preparing a future based on high energy and youth, which could limit his playing time.
Ten Hag has yet to make a choice on Ronaldo, who will join from Ajax at the end of the season.
If Ronaldo wants to leave United, Real could offer him a way out. United are practically set to miss out on the Champions League next season.
After resigning for United in a surprise move last summer, Ronaldo, Real’s all-time greatest goalscorer, had intended to compete for titles.
But that hasn’t happened as United has had a disastrous season, with massive defeats at the hands of Manchester City and Liverpool, as well as early exits from cup tournaments.