Manchester United could get ideal signing with Cristiano Ronaldo swap deal

It has been a difficult few days for Manchester United fans and their relationship with Cristiano Ronaldo.

On Saturday it came to light that Ronaldo had told the club to accept any 'reasonable offers' they receive from other clubs for his services. It was, in a way, an unsurprising development considering United will be competing in the Europa League next season but following his positivity towards the Erik ten Hag project a matter of weeks ago, it was still a hammer blow for the supporters.

United swiftly moved to insist that Ronaldo is not for sale, however there is only so long that you can keep hold of a player who does not want to be at the club. The start of a fresh week did not ease any United concerns as the club confirmed that Ronaldo had not returned to training following the summer break.

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A senior United source said that this was due to 'family reasons'. But should Ronaldo get his wish with a move away from Old Trafford it could easily become a disaster for United, especially considering the identity of one of the clubs swooping around the striker.

Chelsea's new owner Todd Boehly is thought to be keen on bringing the 37-year-old to Stamford Bridge and, with the Blues having let Romelu Lukaku leave on loan, they are on the lookout for a centre forward. Realistically, United will see Chelsea as a direct rival for Champions League qualification and allowing last season's top goalscorer to join them does not make sense on paper.

However, if United were to play their cards right, they could be able to secure an ideal signing by utilising a swap deal. Ten Hag has already decided that strengthening United's midfield should be his top transfer priority and Thomas