Chelsea are still in the race to sign Cristiano Ronaldo this summer, according to reports. The Portuguese forward appears set to leave Manchester United in the transfer window, making a request to move on should an appropriate offer be received.
Ronaldo has also been left out of the United pre-season squad for their tour of Thailand, citing personal and family-related reasons. It comes after Blues owner Todd Boehly held talks with agent Jorge Mendes about the possibility of the 37-year-old moving to the west London outfit.
Thomas Tuchel is looking for players to reinforce his frontline after a season of difficulties in front of goal. Just one year after joining for a club-record fee, Romelu Lukaku has returned to Inter Milan on loan, while other forwards are expected to leave the club too.
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That will, however, allow the German coach to make a number of signings of his own while the window is open. football.london understands Raheem Sterling is set to be the first arrival, with both a fee and personal terms agreed for the Manchester City striker.
That is only set to be the first arrival, though, with plenty more changes to come within the squad, including the potential for a natural centre-forward option. Ronaldo has been heavily linked with this role, and the Blues are still said to be interested.
According to Sky Sports journalist Angelo Mangiante, Boehly is able to cover the full financial package for a deal involving the Portugal international. While the striker is viewing a return to the Champions League this season, he has yet to decide on his future beyond Old Trafford.
It remains to be seen whether a move will materialise for Ronaldo, but it may be one of the most high-profile transfers this summer.
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