Cristiano Ronaldo may decide not to leave Manchester United this summer after being ‘impressed’ by the club’s recent transfer spending.
Ronaldo has been heavily linked with a move away from Old Trafford this summer after becoming dissatisfied with the club’s recent failings, and his uncertainty has resulted in him being benched for United’s past two Premier League games against Liverpool and Southampton.
Ronaldo had anticipated that his agent, Jorge Mendes, could arrange a transfer for him this summer, but with the transfer window closing, his immediate future remains uncertain.
However, the Premier League heavyweights feel he can now be persuaded to stay as a result of their recent cash injection. On Tuesday, United completed Antony’s £81.3 million transfer from Ajax, with the fee eventually rising to £85.5 million due to contract-related add-ons.
The Brazilian winger joins compatriot Casemiro, Lisandro Martinez, Christian Eriksen, and Tyrell Malacia as the club’s fifth acquisition of the transfer window.
Following Antony’s mega-money signing and two consecutive wins under new manager Erik ten Hag, the mood at Old Trafford has apparently altered slightly, and they think Ronaldo is pleased with the club’s determination to reclaim its place among Europe’s best.
Ten Hag’s team is also expected to announce the loan acquisition of Newcastle goalkeeper Martin Dubravka soon, signaling a strong end to the window.
United will be anxious to extend their mini-winning streak when they face Leicester at the King Power Stadium on Thursday evening, after close victories over Southampton and Liverpool.
The Red Devils are already trailing their top four rivals, with Arsenal leading the way with a perfect record, and Man City and Tottenham both on 10 points from 12 games.
Following their trip to Leicester, United will host old rivals Arsenal at Old Trafford in what promises to be an entertaining match. And it may mean Antony’s entire debut, as well as Ronaldo’s return to the starting lineup.