Cristiano Ronaldo
What is Cristiano Ronaldo doing? Rumors of an imminent departure of the Portuguese from Juventus Turin continue.
Even if the Portuguese star kicker had recently described change rumors via Instagram as “disrespect”, the five-time world footballer is unable to elicit a commitment to the “old lady”. But on the contrary. On Sunday, the now 36-year-old only sat on the bench in the 2-2 draw against Udine – at his own request, as was reported later.
So it's not surprising that the rumor mill continues to simmer that Ronaldo could leave the Italians until the end of August. Even if his contract actually runs until 2022. However, the princely salary of the five-time world footballer could become a stumbling block. Ronaldo collects 31 million euros a year in Turin – net, of course. Few clubs can afford this salary.
Ronaldo is on hold anyway. Only when Kylian Mbappe is transferred to Real Madrid could a real player domino start rolling. And flush Ronaldo to Paris St.-Germain. In any case, Mbappe turned down a lucrative offer to extend his contract on Tuesday – a clear sign that the Frenchman's departure is imminent.
Apparently, Juventus also knows that, and has already been looking for a Ronaldo successor, as “Tuttosport” reports. The “Bianconeri” have three players on their list, but with Gabriel Jesus from Manchester City there is a clear dream player from coach Massimo Allegri. The Brazilian is still under contract with the English champions until 2023 and could lose his regular place if Harry Kane is signed by Tottenham.
With Anthony Martial from Manchester United and Mauro Icardi from Paris St.-Germain, two other well-known strikers are on the list.
It comes as no surprise that players from the two Manchester clubs and the French sheik ensemble are represented. After all, Ronaldo's agent Jorge Mendes has recently had more intensive contact with all three clubs and explored a possible interest in the 36-year-old. Juve therefore prefer a swap to reduce the transfer fee. With city coach Pep Guardiola, however, Mendes got a basket. The clear announcement of the English master: “No interest”. And Ronaldo is running out of time …
