Erik ten Hag has insisted that Manchester United superstar Cristiano Ronaldo isn't for sale this summer.
football.london understand that Chelsea have sounded out a move for the striker, with Ronaldo keen to ply his trade in the Champions League this season. According to ESPN, the Portugal international is open to a move to Stamford Bridge, but the Blues remain hesitant as to whether to escalate their interest, with Tuchel believed to have been granted the final say.
The Portuguese star has not been included in Erik ten Hag's squad which has travelled to Thailand for pre-season, with 'family reasons' cited as the reason for his absence. Ronaldo has not yet reported back for pre-season training, despite being expected to return last Monday.
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Now, Ten Hag has insisted that Ronaldo is part of his plans moving forward. Speaking in his latest press conference, as cited by our colleagues at the MEN, the Dutchman said: "He hasn't told me this [that he wants to leave].
"I have read, but as I say, Cristiano is not for sale, he's in our plans and we want to get success together."
Ten Hag later added: "I spoke with him before this issue came up. I had a conversation him and had a real good talk.
"We are planning with Ronaldo for this season - that's it. I'm looking forward to working with him."
Whether Chelsea act on their interest remains to be seen. It's clear that it'll be a difficult transfer to negotiate, but it may be a risk worth taking.
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