Diego Simeone verdict on Man United star Cristiano Ronaldo amid Atletico Madrid transfer links

24.07.2022 - 16:27 / manchestereveningnews.co.uk

Diego Simeone has already shared his verdict on Manchester United forward Cristiano Ronaldo amid suggestions Atletico Madrid could swoop for the five-time Ballon d'Or winner this summer.

Ronaldo, 37, headed back to Old Trafford last summer - after 12 years with Real Madrid and Juventus - in a stunning return move. Ronaldo marked that second coming with 24 goals in all competitions, but speculation over his future continues to mount and the player has expressed a desire to leave.

Due to a family matter, the Portugal captain has yet to report for pre-season training and did not board the plane when his teammates jetted off to Thailand and Australia on tour. United formally accepted that reason, but are set to seek clarification talks on when the player intends to return to their Carrington training base.

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During his absence, transfer rumours surrounding Ronaldo have been bubbling away. Chelsea and Bundesliga side Bayern Munich distanced themselves from his signature, while reports in France suggested Ronaldo was offered to big-spending Paris Saint-Germain.

It is claimed they turned down the opportunity to team the United striker up with his long-term rival, Lionel Messi. Ronaldo also rebuffed a lucrative offer from Saudi Arabia and developing reports continue to link the Real icon with a return to Madrid — this time across the city with Atletico.

Ronaldo has gunned down Atletico several times in his amazing career. His achievements against the club haven't been forgotten at the Wanda Metropolitano and manager Simeone has already made his feelings over him crystal clear.

United and Ronaldo crashed out of the Champions League when losing to Atletico last season and, when