Arsenal and Newcastle United are reportedly interested in signing wantaway Manchester United attacker Cristiano Ronaldo.
According to a report by Spanish publication AS, both Newcastle United and Arsenal are eyeing a potential deal for Cristiano Ronaldo. The 37-year-old’s imminent future has been the subject of severe speculation, and he might don the Manchester United jersey for one last time in January.
Following the incident in the game against Tottenham Hotspur, Ronaldo was sent to exile by Erik ten Hag. But he has been permitted to resume first-team training and is expected to be in the squad when the Red Devils entertain Sheriff Tiraspol at Old Trafford on Thursday.
Erik ten Hag has not let the whole drama affect his team morale, and the late draw against Chelsea boosted his side’s confidence even more. Ronaldo needs to accept a squad role or Manchester United will have to offload the player from their wage bill.
Newcastle United have enjoyed a rapid transformation under Eddie Howe, and they have been one of the teams to beat this season. The Magpies are in contention for a top-four finish as it stands and might even be dark horses for the title with a few more good results in their kitty.
Newcastle United might see Ronaldo as someone who could be the catalyst in their game-changing season. And their recent takeover would also allow them to afford his wages.
For Arsenal, it could be a bit more complicated as Manchester United might not want to let Ronaldo join one of their arch-rivals. Even if the Red Devils decide to terminate his contract they might persuade him not to join the Gunners as it might have an adverse effect on the supporters.
Mikel Arteta has accumulated a young squad, and the arrival of Ronaldo also could have an effect on the team spirit. Meanwhile, Napoli also showed their intention in bringing the player back to Italy. But Ronaldo currently earns to the tune of £400,000, and the Partenopei would find it difficult to bear such a financial burden on their shoulder.
In addition, Ronaldo wants to remain in England for the foreseeable future. Both Newcastle United and Arsenal have been finding the right player to improve their balance. But Ronaldo’s recent tantrums at Manchester United might force the clubs to take a backseat and rethink their transfer strategy.