Cristiano Ronaldo to Real Madrid: Man Utd star linked with move back to Spanish capital

Real Madrid are reportedly keen on a shock transfer to bring Cristiano Ronaldo back to the club amid Erik ten Hag uncertainty.

According to the Mirror, Ronaldo could be set to leave Manchester in the summer in a sensational reunion with his former club.

Real Madrid would be looking to capitalise on a potential rift between Ronaldo and incoming manager Ten Hag, who based on historical comments, isn’t the sweetest on the Portuguese star.

Following Manchester United’s 1-1 draw with Chelsea, manager Ralf Rangnick was asked whether he knew anything about his successors’ plans for Ronaldo and did little to stifle the rumours.

“In the end, it is both Erik [ten Hag]’s and also Cristiano’s decision what they want to do so I think it is not for me to speak about that.”

Ronaldo has enjoyed an impressive first season back with United following his £12.5 million switch from Juventus last summer, scoring 23 goals, despite the poor team that surrounds him.

Which begs the question as to why Ten Hag would even entertain the possibility of his star forward leaving with a year still to go on his existing contract? Especially given that second in the goal scoring charts at the club (Bruno Fernandes) hasn’t even hit double figures.

Well, Ten Hag’s new look United will be built on energy and youth, much like the philosophy he has employed at Ajax.

And whilst that sounds very promising for the Red Devils, it’s clear Ronaldo does not fit the billing…

Whether the Dutchman will find a place for him in the set-up remains to be seen, but one would imagine that come next season Ronaldo will be far away from being the first name on the team sheet regardless.

Whereas if he was to make the switch to Real Madrid, as well as being adored by the