Michael Owen explains why Cristiano Ronaldo will stay at Manchester United

Michael Owen has stated that he believes the club will not allow Cristiano Ronaldo to leave the club this summer with the club not being able to find a suitable replacement.

Manchester Evening News reported back on July 5 that Manchester United's inactivity in the transfer market and a salary reduction are among the issues that have convinced Cristiano Ronaldo to try and seek a move away from the club. Ronaldo has grown impatient with their response in adding players after a disastrous season that they finished trophyless and were demoted to the Europa League.

United's failure to qualify for the Champions League has also triggered a 25% reduction on players' salaries, which sources close to Ronaldo say has "upset" the player. Ronaldo agreed a £480,000-a-week contract when he rejoined United and his basic weekly wage for the forthcoming season is now £360,000.

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Despite Ronaldo's desire to leave United after only a year, the club remain hopeful of him remaining at the club, with a clear lack of suitors for his signature.

And Owen believes United will refuse to let the Portuguese superstar leave unless they find a suitable replacement.

Asked if he thinks Ronaldo will stay at Old Trafford, Owen told DAZN: "I didn't a week ago, but the noise coming out now suggest he will. If he goes, they are very light in attacking areas and the number of goals he scored last season – how do you replace that?

"Martial's come back, Rashford needs to do something as he can't have another season like last season and Cavani has left. It's not very exciting. Especially if Ronaldo leaves as well and they don't get anyone in.

"So I think he will stay unless they have somebody big to