Erik ten Hag might yet achieve his Cristiano Ronaldo dream at Manchester United

When Cristiano Ronaldo recently signalled his intentions to leave Manchester United, he probably did not think it would be so difficult to source an escape route.

However, for all of his talent, outstanding pedigree and the glitz and glamour that is associated with his iconic status in world football, he is struggling to find a club that is prepared to take him in and give him the luxury of Champions league football that he so desperately craves. Chelsea, who looked like the strongest bet to secure his signature, have shelved their interest, with head coach Thomas Tuchel dismissing the idea of bringing him to Stamford Bridge.

Bayern Munich have also made it clear that they are not planning on adding the 37-year-old to Julian Nagelsmann's squad this summer. They, like Chelsea, quickly emerged as one of the favourites to be in with a shot of signing the United star, but they have made it clear, not for the first time, that they won't be sending a fax through to Old Trafford in an attempt to lure him to Germany.

Sporting director Hasan Salihamidzic said: "I have a lot of respect for Cristiano Ronaldo, his successes and his career. But once again: That was and is not a topic for us."

Suddenly, Ronaldo's options appear limited. For a player that wants Champions League football and expects to play for one of the biggest clubs in the world, options are running out. Chelsea's need for a striker, following their decision to let Romelu Lukaku return to Inter Milan on loan, and Bayern's need for a replacement for Robert Lewandowski meant both clubs seemed like the most logical potential destinations for Ronaldo to continue his love affair with Europe's premier club competition.

But with those two out of the running, who could now