The rumoured transfer between Cristiano Ronaldo and Manchester City has broken down despite the Citizens previously appearing to have the lead over Manchester United in the pursuit of the Portuguese international.
The former United star scored 84 goals in 196 league appearances in a six-year stint at Old Trafford, and now it is believed he could be returning to the club where he made his name.
In a whirlwind Friday lunchtime, news broke that City had decided to not advance in their pursuit of Cristiano Ronaldo, having failed to bring England captain Harry Kane to the Etihad this summer.
Shortly after, Manchester Evening News exclusively revealed United submitted a contract offer to Ronaldo after he spoke to Sir Alex Ferguson about rejoining the club this morning.
Following this report, Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand put out a cryptic video where he appears to be smiling at the potential of seeing his former United teammate suit up in the famous red and white United strip once again.
If any deal for Ronaldo is to be completed, United will surely be considered one of the favourites to compete for the Premier League title. The 36-year-old will add experience, talent and pedigree to a young and dynamic forward line that already includes Marcus Rashford and Jadon Sancho.
In Friday's pre-match press conference, United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer doubled down on reports that United were in contact with Ronaldo's agent Jorge Mendes, stating, "We've always had a good communication. Bruno [Fernandes] has been talking to him as well, and he knows what we feel about him. And if he was ever gonna move away from Juventus, he knows we're here."
