Manchester City have pulled out of the race to sign Cristiano Ronaldo, clearing the way for a potential shock return to Manchester United.
The PA news agency had reported that United have held discussions with the five-time world player of the year’s agent, Jorge Mendes.
City were offered the 36-year-old, who has made it clear he wants to leave Juventus, and were considered front-runners for his signature, but have decided the deal is not one they wish to pursue.
Having missed out on Harry Kane, City did weigh up the possibility but came to the conclusion that the Portuguese was not the right fit for Pep Guardiola’s squad.
United appeared to become an option when manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer held a press conference on Friday afternoon and said their former star “knows that we’re here”.
Solskjaer added that United midfielder Bruno Fernandes has been talking to his compatriot Ronaldo.
Juventus are reported to be seeking around £25million for the player.
