Transfer News: Solskjaer has already spoken to Ronaldo regarding a return to Manchester United
According to Spanish publication AS (h/t Inside Futbol), Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has already outlined his project at Manchester United to Cristiano Ronaldo.
The Portuguese sensation has been linked with a return to Old Trafford following a frustrating season with Juventus. The Italian giants go into the final day of the season not knowing their Champions League fate.
While the Old Lady has struggled, Ronaldo has continued to rack up numbers despite his age. The 36-year-old has so far scored 36 goals and made four assists in just 44 appearances this season. (h/t Transfermarkt)
It is no secret that Juventus need a rebuild. While United too are a team in transition, we are currently ahead of the Turin giants in our process. Not only will Ronaldo be potentially joining a Champions League outfit but also one that will look to improve upon their second placed finish this season.
Solskjaer is keen to reunite with his former teammate and has explained his project to the veteran ace. Ronaldo for his part appears to be ready to return to the Theatre of Dreams.
The player’s final decision could however hinge on whether Juventus qualify for Europe’s top competition., Currently fifth going into the final game of the season, the Italians do not have their destiny in their own hands.
A timeless legend
While a top-four finish could convince him to stay, it does not appear likely that Ronaldo will stay put to take part in a Europa League campaign.
The 36-year-old spent six seasons at United, scoring 118 goals and 69 assists in 292 games across all competitions. He helped United win three Premier League titles, an FA Cup, A UEFA Champions League and a Club World Cup during his stint.
There is little doubt that Ronaldo will go down as one of the finest players to ever play the game. Whether he has kicked his last ball in United colours remains to be seen.
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While Ronaldo returning to Old Trafford has a sense of romanticism to it, the club is better off approaching other avenues. Not only will Ronaldo command significant wages but is also nearing the end of his much-storied career.
While his legacy at the club is not under threat, United will do better to look forward and not backwards. Ronaldo has had his time in red and we are betetr off leaving it in the past.