Cristiano Ronaldo’s sister, Katia Aveiro, has posted a cryptic message on Instagram regarding her brother's future at Manchester United.
Ronaldo is determined to depart Old Trafford this summer and he has not reported to the club's pre-season tour of Asia due to 'family reasons'. The 37-year-old only returned to United last year, sealing an emotional £20million return to the club from Juventus.
Intriguingly, Ronaldo was involved in the Red Devils' promotional content for the launch of their new home kit, yet the recorded footage of him and club legends David Beckham and Eric Cantona has not been released. Adidas are believed to be holding it back until the player's future at the club is clarified.
The Portuguese forward enjoyed an impressive first campaign back at Old Trafford after 12 years away as he bagged 24 goals in all competitions. However, United endured a torrid season and they ended up sixth in the Premier League, having secured a second-place finish during the previous campaign.
Ronaldo was left "upset" at seeing his pay slashed at United after each member of the squad was hit with a 25 per cent cut to their weekly wage as a direct consequence of failing to qualify for the Champions League.
Chelsea owner Todd Boehly is considering launching an extraordinary bid to sign Ronaldo as he and Chelsea director Behdad Eghbali are keeping close tabs on the situation, although Blues boss Thomas Tuchel is said to be against the idea.
Have Your Say! Would Manchester United improve without Cristiano Ronaldo in their squad? Tell us what you think here.
In a fresh development, Ronaldo's sister was asked by an Instagram user "Cristiano will stay [in] Manchester?" Katia Aveiro replied, as translated by the Manchester Evening News : "I suggest some glasses... a span of brain or else learn to read haaa and notion." While the response is not clear, it has been suggested that she is telling the user to read the room as the situation should be obvious.
Gary Neville, United's former right-back and current high-profile pundit, said on social media this week: “The only important factor with the Ronaldo situation is that it’s dealt with decisively and quickly. This can’t be a saga that takes the attention away from Erik ten Hag’s bedding-in period for the next two months.”
The possible exit of Ronaldo would leave United desperately light of attacking options. Edinson Cavani was among a glut of first-team exits this summer upon the expiration of his contract at Old Trafford. Signing a striker was far down United’s priority list, but that situation has now changed.
Ajax forward Antony is said to be among the leading transfer targets for Ten Hag, who is keen to reunite with the 22-year-old. The Brazilian has told the Dutch giants that he wants the club to consider allowing him to make the switch to United this summer to be reunited with his former boss.
