Manchester City could switch their focus to signing Cristiano Ronaldo, after Harry Kane confirmed he will remain at Tottenham.
The champions had earmarked Kane as their top target to replace Sergio Aguero, who left the club at the end of last season.
And for much of the summer that deal looked inevitable, with the striker seemingly pushing for an exit.
However, the 28-year-old effectively ended the saga on Wednesday, insisting he will stay in north London for at least one more season.
He posted: “It was incredible to see the reception from the Spurs fans on Sunday and to read some of the messages of support I've had in the last few weeks.
“I will be staying at Tottenham this summer and will be 100% focused on helping the team achieve success.”
It means City will now reluctantly look elsewhere for a new centre-forward, meaning that Ronaldo could once again become a possibility.
ESPN report that the idea of signing the Juventus striker has not been ruled out, despite him not being a target initially.
The 36-year-old has just one year remaining on his current deal and speculation in the Italian press has suggested they could look to sell him this summer.
Ronaldo was reportedly offered to City for £25million earlier this summer, with super agent Jorge Mendes looking to strike a deal before the end of the summer window.
At that point, Etihad chiefs snubbed the chance to sign the Manchester United great, putting their full focus into landing Kane.
But the twist to the Kane transfer chase means City could now take another look, although there are a number of stumbling blocks between a deal being completed.
For one, Ronaldo’s huge salary would go against the current structure at the club and there is a reluctance to pay a fee for a player who will be available for nothing in 12 months’ time.
Ronaldo was left out of Juventus’ starting line-up for their Serie A opener against Udinese, with reports emerging he had specifically made the request.
Juve boss Massimiliano Allegri quickly moved to quash those rumours, explaining: "Ronaldo is feeling well.
"I had talked to him before the game, telling him he would start on the bench.
"He made himself available, he did well when he entered the pitch."
Pavel Nedved, the Bianconeri’s vice-president was more prickly in his response, telling DAZN: "We mustn't try to create sensational stories where there aren't any.
"It was a decision shared with the player. At the start of the season, naturally he is not at top fitness.
"The coach is trying to use the best line-up at this moment.
"I can absolutely confirm Ronaldo will remain at Juventus this season."
