Manchester United superstar Cristiano Ronaldo are willing to take a “considerable” pay cut to leave Old Trafford with Chelsea among his preferred summer destination option, according to the Independent.
The report claims that the 37-year-old’s willingness to reduce his salary stems from his desire to play for a Champions League club or at least challenge for a major domestic title.
Despite the word “considerable” being mentioned in the report, however, Ronaldo is reportedly still on over £500,000 per week, with other Independent sources insisting that the figure is actually over £700,000.
Chelsea, Bayern Munich, and, to a lesser extent, Paris Saint-Germain are reportedly among the Portugal international’s preferred options.
Another report by The Athletic’s David Ornstein adds that Chelsea are seriously considering making a move.
New Chelsea owner Todd Boehly — who previously had a meeting with Ronaldo’s agent, Jorge Mendes — and director Behdad Eghbali are particularly intrigued by the prospect of signing such a high-profile player.
The talks between the Chelsea chief and Mendes reportedly continue.
Chelsea manager Thomas Tuchel is said to be a “long-term admirer” of Ronaldo as well, although it remains unclear whether he considers Ronaldo a suitable target for his possession-based Blues side.
Tuchel’s stance will be “key” to Chelsea’s transfer decisions this summer, and this includes any potential pursuit of Ronaldo, The Athletic further adds.
Aside from that, Manchester United are reportedly reluctant to let go of the club’s player of the season, let alone to direct Premier League rivals.
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