Man Utd double down on Cristiano Ronaldo stance as Sporting Lisbon links re-emerge

Manchester United have downplayed reports that Cristiano Ronaldo is close to joining Sporting Lisbon.

The five-time Balon d'Or winner wants to leave the Red Devils before the transfer window and hopes to continue playing in the Champions League. United, however, will be competing in the Europa League this season after finishing sixth in the Premier League with their lowest-ever points tally.

Rumours circulated on social media that the 37-year-old was set to make the switch to his former club, Sporting, but the Daily Mail have reported that United believe that move will not happen. It was claimed online that ' Cristiano Ronaldo is on the verge of signing for Sporting Lisbon.

'The club are going to begin presentation preparations from tomorrow. Deal 99% done. Jorge Mendes worked around the clock to find a solution. Sporting squad have been preparing for Ronaldo's return for weeks.'

Moments after the report, Ronaldo posted an Instagram post, saying: "Keep working and focused", followed by a prayer and muscle emoji. Many thought that was a sign Ronaldo was on his way to Lisbon, but United remain insistent that he will stay at Old Trafford and he isn't on his way out of the club.

Ronaldo's stance hasn't changed as he tries to force his way out of the exit doors. Chelsea, Bayern Munich and Real Madrid were amongst the clubs linked at the start of the window, but a number of sides have reportedly rejected the opportunity to sign the experienced forward.

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Jamie Carragher delivered his verdict on Ronaldo's situation after the striker was dropped for United's game against Liverpool on Monday. He told Sky Sports: "I think Ronaldo, the manager has an opportunity with players back to