Ten Hag Will Ask Manchester United To Sign £70m Forward If Ronaldo Leaves

Cristiano Ronaldo’s request to move on has forced Erik ten Hag to look for alternatives after the start of pre-season training.

The new Manchester United boss, who took charge of his first training session on Monday, has been prioritising strengthening his midfield and defence.

As per his demand, the club hierarchy made significant progress in their pursuit of Feyenoord left-back Tyrell Malacia and Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong. Their transfer plan also effectively left Liverpool with a free run at Darwin Nunez.

However, United are expected to be back in the market for a new forward after it emerged that Ronaldo, who is due back to Carrington for pre-season training tomorrow, wants to depart.

According to the Mirror, Ten Hag will talk to the 37-year-old if he’s ready to stay at Old Trafford for the remainder of his contract. If Ronaldo manages to force his exit from United for a second time, the Dutchman will urge the club to sign Ajax forward Antony.

Ajax’s intention to hold out for a £70m transfer fee for the Brazilian winger cooled down United’s interest in the player in recent weeks. But the former Ajax manager will put pressure on the Premier League giants to ‘splash the clash’ on the 22-year-old should his current talisman move elsewhere.