Manchester United

Manchester United

Premier League • England

Cristiano Ronaldo news: Leading suitor puts ball in legendary attacker’s court with plans to eclipse Man Utd salary

Cristiano Ronaldo of Manchester United applauds the fans

Cristiano Ronaldo could be joining Al Hilal after his Manchester United exit, with reports now claiming that the Saudi Arabian club have told him to name his price for a salary that will surpass what he earned in the Premier League.

Ronaldo’s time as a Manchester United player recently came to an end when his contract was cancelled by mutual agreement. His second spell with the club turned sour after their failure to qualify for this season’s Champions League, and then his perceived poor treatment by Erik ten Hag.

Ronaldo aired all his grievances in a TV interview with Piers Morgan, after which his status as a Manchester United player became untenable.

The club parted company with him on November 22, which has led to an unthinkable scenario. One of the greatest footballers on the planet is without a club.

Obviously, Ronaldo will be focusing on his World Cup duties with Portugal for the time being. Soon, though, he will have to find a club willing to take him on.

There has been a surprising lack of interest from within Europe, largely because of Ronaldo’s high wages. Hence, he might have to continue his career in a completely different environment.

It recently emerged that Al Hilal are looking into taking Ronaldo to Saudi Arabia. They have previously tried to lure him to the Middle East and now might fancy their chances.

The latest development has come courtesy of the Daily Mirror, which is reporting that Al Hilal have told Ronaldo to “name his price” ahead of a potential contract offer.

Ronaldo was already on a salary of £500,000 per week with Manchester United. Al Hilal are willing to use their huge financial power to usurp that package.

Indeed, the five time Ballon d’Or winner could become the highest paid player in football if his demands and Al Hilal’s offer align.

Cristiano Ronaldo to Al Hilal links may have more to tell

What’s more, Ronaldo is reportedly starting to show an interest in playing in Saudi Arabia, where he would be the undisputed star.

Hence, there could be further developments when it comes to the prospect of Al Hilal taking Ronaldo on board.

It may serve as something of a wake-up call to anyone else who might be interested. There have been suggestions that Ronaldo could stay in the Premier League with someone other than Manchester United.

But whoever wants to sign Ronaldo will have a serious contender to compete with in the shape of Al Hilal.

Not only are they a powerful financial force, but they also have good footballing pedigree. Indeed, they are the most successful club in the whole of Asia and are the reigning Saudi champions.

It would be a different kind of challenge for Ronaldo, but one that might catch his interest. Now, his representatives must work out their first step in any negotiations over a potential contract there.

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