As the transfer window nears its end, Cristiano Ronaldo promises to be one of the biggest stories. As the days go by more and more clubs get linked with a move for the Portuguese legend.
In Fabrizio Romano’s latest Daily Briefing he detailed comments from Napoli manager Luciano Spalletti on a potential move for the Manchester United forward. Spalletti stated: “I’d love to work with Cristiano Ronaldo, of course – but there are no talks. De Laurentiis [Napoli president] told me that he has not received anything.
“I think it’s difficult [Ronaldo-Victor Osimhen swap deal] but you should ask our director, Giuntoli”.
Osimhen, who Napoli reportedly value at £102 million, has won over football fans worldwide, with one journalist calling him “unbelievable”, but it would be a challenge for such a big transfer to be completed so late in the window.
Napoli Manager Downplays Cristiano Ronaldo Move
Napoli manager Spalletti: “I’d love to work with Cristiano Ronaldo, ofc – but there are no talks. De Laurentiis [Napoli president] told me that he has not received anything”. 🚨🇵🇹 #MUFC
“I think it’s difficult [CR-Osimhen swap deal] but you should ask our director Giuntoli”. pic.twitter.com/MgX7bFz7AY
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) August 27, 2022
Ronaldo’s Value
The 37-year-old has attracted quite a number of suitors thanks to his play on the field. Despite nearing 40 he is still capable of elite quality football, and more importantly, knows how to find the net. In the 2021/22 season, the Portugal international was the Red Devils’ leading scorer, doubling the output of his closest competitor.
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No sane manager in the world would turn down a player scoring 24 goals at such a high level, especially when they have such a strong goal scoring record throughout their career.
Why the Hesitancy
Despite his talent on the field and the goals he can score, Ronaldo can only continue this output for so long. Any team signing the forward would be under pressure to win now as there’s no guarantee that his performance will remain at this level as he enters the twilight of his illustrious career.
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In addition, a player of this stature does not come cheap. It’s going to be tough to find a team with the necessary space in their wage budget to make a deal worthwhile for both parties. That’s before factoring in any demands that Erik ten Hag’s side may have.
What do you think Cristiano Ronaldo and Casemiro are saying to each other? 🗣#SOUMUN pic.twitter.com/CVVpYYqSvH
— Premier League (@premierleague) August 27, 2022
