Just as Manchester United 's summer transfer plans were beginning to take shape, the Red Devils have been rocked by the revelation that Cristiano Ronaldo has requested to leave.
Having seen their pursuit of Barcelona 's Frenkie de Jong become something of a slog, United look to have made a breakthrough on that front, while also agreeing a deal for fellow Dutchman and Feyenoord full-back Tyrell Malacia. A more pressing concern appears to have now arisen, however.
It seems United have a battle on their hands to keep their talisman following reports that Ronaldo has asked to leave Old Trafford this summer. Elsewhere, the Red Devils are understood to have submitted an opening bid for Ajax 's Lisandro Martinez, while Chelsea are thoughts to be waiting in the wings for De Jong.
Mirror Football is here to bring you up-to-speed with all the latest transfer stories coming out of Old Trafford...
Ronaldo requests to leave
There's only one place to start: club legend Ronaldo wants out of Old Trafford once again. That's according to The Times, who state the Portuguese superstar has informed United he wishes to be allowed to leave in the current window should the Premier League club receive a suitable offer for his services.
The 37-year-old’s decision is thought to be driven by his insatiable desire to play in the Champions League for the remainder of his career. United's iconic No.7 has featured in Europe's elite club competition for 19 seasons on the spin, however Erik ten Hag's team can only offer Europa League football next term.
Ronaldo reportedly believes he has “three or four years” left at the highest level and intends to spend that time challenging for majority honours within the game. Both Bayern Munich and Chelsea have already discussed the possibility of signing the striker, who has just one year remaining on his current United contract, this summer.
United lodge Martinez bid
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There's a positive update on the Martinez front, however, following the news that United have reportedly lodged their opening offer to Ajax. The Red Devils' initial bid is understood to be around £34.5million, according to the Daily Mail, though enticing add-ons are expected to have also been included.
Arsenal have already seen two bids for Martinez rejected this summer, with their second thought to have been of a similar value to United's. It is believed the Eredivisie champions are holding out for a package in the region of £43m for the Argentine ace.
It has been widely reported that Martinez is eager to be reunited with former Ajax manager Ten Hag at Old Trafford this summer. The versatile 24-year-old is predominantly a central defender, but can also play in midfield or at left-back.
De Jong linked with Chelsea
Despite having agreed a fee in the region of £56m plus add-ons with Barcelona for De Jong, it seems United still face competition over the Dutchman. According to the Guardian, Premier League rivals Chelsea are currently monitoring developments and could target the midfielder if his planned move to Old Trafford falls through.
Having agreed a fee with the cash-strapped Catalan club, United are currently negotiating with De Jong and his representatives over personal terms. The 25-year-old is thought to be open to moving to Manchester this summer, despite previously stating he is in no rush to leave Barcelona.
De Jong is also understood to remain keen on playing in the Champions League, which is not something United can offer him next campaign. As for his current employers, the Blaugrana have made no secret of the fact they are looking to raise funds through player sales this summer.
