Manchester United reportedly double down on their insistence that Cristiano Ronaldo will not be sold this summer.
Since the beginning of July, it has been widely claimed that the 37-year-old is pushing to depart Old Trafford during the current transfer window.
The Portuguese superstar is said to be keen to represent a club that is capable of challenging for the Champions League, rather than spending 2022-23 in the Europa League.
However, there are a lack of realistic options for Ronaldo with Chelsea, Paris Saint-Germain and Bayern Munich having no interest in pursuing a deal.
Furthermore, Atletico Madrid president Enrique Cerezo dismissed speculation linking the player with a switch to Wanda Metropolitano on Tuesday.
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Speaking to El Partidazo de COPE, Cerezo said: "I don't know who invented the story of [Ronaldo], but it's practically impossible for him to come to Atletico de Madrid."
That development may come as a significant blow to Ronaldo who was allegedly open to playing under Atletico boss Diego Simeone.
According to The Telegraph, the veteran has since been told that he must remain at United for the upcoming campaign.
After missing United's pre-season tour of Thailand and Australia due to family reasons, Ronaldo flew to England earlier this week in a bid to resolve his future.
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On Tuesday, he is said to have held his first official discussions with head coach Erik ten Hag, who has stated on more than one occasion that he wishes to retain the services of Ronaldo.
At this stage, it appears that United are highly unlikely to alter their stance that Ronaldo is not for sale during the current transfer window.
Although there have been suggestions that United may be open to a loan departure, that also appears unlikely with just nine days remaining before the start of the new season.
While United remain in the market for a new striker, Ronaldo currently appears set to compete with Anthony Martial for a spot in the starting lineup this campaign.
Darren Plant
