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Manchester United have now emerged as the leaders to sign Cristiano Ronaldo from Juventus following rivals Manchester City's pullout, according to Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano.
Based on previous reports, Manchester City were reluctant to pay a fee to Juventus for Cristiano Ronaldo. However, that is not the case with Manchester United.
According to the aforementioned source, Manchester United are now in direct contact with Cristiano Ronaldo's agent Jorge Mendes regarding a potential move. The Red Devils are currently negotiating Ronaldo's potential salary and also a fee for Juventus, which was reported to be around €30 million.
As things stand, Manchester City were leading the race to land Cristiano Ronaldo before the end of the summer transfer window. However, the emergence of Manchester United has made things interesting.
In the latest development, the Premier League champions have pulled out of the deal, leaving Manchester United with a chance to sign the 36-year-old forward.
Cristiano Ronaldo is considered a Manchester United legend. The five-time Ballon d'Or winner joined the Red Devils back in the summer of 2003. In his six seasons at the club, Cristiano Ronaldo scored 118 goals and helped Manchester United win three Premier League titles and the 2008 Champions League.
Also Read: Fabrizio Romano Exclusive: 5 biggest transfers which could happen before deadline day
Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer ready to welcome Cristiano Ronaldo
Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has revealed that the club has always been in contact with Cristiano Ronaldo through Bruno Fernandes and is ready to welcome him back if he wants to return. Solskjaer said:
“Cristiano Ronaldo? We've always had a good communication. Bruno has been talking to him as well and he knows what we feel about him. If he was ever going to move away from Juventus, he knows we are here.”
The Manchester United manager also believes Cristiano Ronaldo is the greatest player to play for the club and is now keen to see what happens regarding the transfer. Solskjaer added:
“Cristiano is a legend of this club, the the greatest player of all time if you ask me. I was fortunate enough to play with him. I coached him when I got my job. Let's see what happens."
Also Read: David James' column - Greatest foreign XI in Premier League history
