Ronaldo to Man Utd: I want to leave this summer

Cristiano Ronaldo has told Manchester United he wants to leave the club this summer amid concerns he will be unable to compete for the biggest trophies at the club.

The 37-year-old feels the urge to win even more in the twilight of his career, but is understood to feel that may not be possible at Old Trafford next season.

The 2021/22 campaign was the fifth in succession in which United failed to win a trophy.

Ronaldo is also understood to be concerned that United are yet to make any improvements to the squad in the current transfer window.

No fewer than 13 players have left the club this summer, while none have arrived.

Ronaldo, who has repeatedly reiterated his respect for United, especially the fans, will in the coming season not play Champions League football – the first in his career – if he stays at Old Trafford.

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The Portugal international has never played in the Europa League – which United will be in next season – and last played in its predecessor, the UEFA Cup when he was at Sporting Lisbon in the 2002/03 season.

But while Ronaldo is keen to leave, United have taken the stance that he is not for sale and expect him to see out the remainder of his contract, which expires in the summer of 2023.

United are close to deals for Barcelona midfielder, Frenkie de Jong, and Feyenoord left-back, Tyrell Malacia, while they also want to sign Ajax centre-back, Lisandro Martinez.

Ronaldo re-signed for Man United last August in a deal worth just under £20m from Juventus and scored 24 goals in 38 games.

The Star