Cristiano Ronaldo is reportedly open to joining La Liga behemoths Atletico Madrid, who will have to find an economically viable way to sign the Manchester United talisman.
According to Manuel Sainz of AS, Cristiano Ronaldo could be open to joining Atletico Madrid, as he has a strong desire to leave Manchester United this summer. The Rojiblancos are keen to sign Ronaldo but will have to find an economically viable way to do so.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s future has been up in the air since this summer after a disastrous 2021/22 season for Manchester United. The Portuguese attacker does not want to play in the UEFA Europa League in the last few years of his illustrious career and hence seeks a move to a team competing in the Champions League.
His desire to play in Europe’s premier competition certainly narrows down the list of potential destinations, having already ruled out a return to Sporting CP. PSG, Bayern Munich and Chelsea have been touted as suitors, but none of those clubs are seemingly interested.
Bayern Munich have repeatedly reiterated their stance and dismissed any possible move for Ronaldo. The Bavarians and PSG were the first clubs to rule out a transfer for the Manchester United talisman, leaving Chelsea as a possible contender for his signature.
? Atlético Madrid cannot afford to sign Cristiano Ronaldo right now.
They need to make more than €40m in sales before they can even think about CR7.
(Source: @Manu_Sainz) pic.twitter.com/Y2xbp6tmzZ
— Transfer News Live (@DeadlineDayLive) July 18, 2022
Despite new Chelsea owner Todd Boehly’s eagerness to sign Ronaldo, Thomas Tuchel’s reluctance to sign him has left the Blues out of the running. Ronaldo has the option of remaining with Manchester United, who have stood firm on their stance that the player is not for sale.
Atletico Madrid have been monitoring Ronaldo’s situation as Diego Simeone eyes a replacement for Luis Suarez, who has left the club this summer. However, Ronaldo’s past connection with Real Madrid might be a stumbling block for return to La Liga with a switch to the Wanda Metropolitano. Nevertheless, the Manchester United striker is reportedly open to joining them.
Ronaldo reportedly likes Simeone and his hunger for the sport. And the fact that Atletico Madrid could offer him re-entry into the Champions League and even mount a challenge for the La Liga title could be appeasing for Ronaldo’s future endeavour.
However, there are slight financial issues preventing Atletico from making an imminent offer. Ronaldo’s massive wages and a potential modest transfer fee could mean significant investment for the Rojiblancos. They may have to bring in at least €40 million through player sales this summer.
With plenty of time still left in the transfer window, Atletico Madrid could consider making a move and try to sign Ronaldo. The Manchester United talisman has in no way shown any depreciation in his physical quality, which makes him an ideal replacement for Suarez.
As things stand, a transfer to Atletico could be tricky from a financial perspective. However, joining Real Madrid’s rivals could be a good move as Ronaldo is comfortable living in Madrid and could take up the challenge, which allows him to be more competitive next season on all fronts.