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Atletico Madrid are ramping up their efforts to sign Cristiano Ronaldo from Manchester United by clearing space on their wage bill for the 37-year-old striker.
That's according to a report from Duncan Castles, writing for The Times, where he says that the Spanish club need to create space within their wage structure in order to complete a deal.
In order to do that, they have placed French forward Antoine Griezmann on the transfer market.
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Last week Atletico offered the player to potential clubs, which included Ligue 1 champions Paris Saint-Germain.
However, the French team are not interested in the 31-year-old.
The player is mid-way through a two-year loan spell that includes a "compulsory permanent transfer clause” of €40 million.
United's forward, Ronaldo, has been receptive to the idea of returning to Madrid. He joined the La Liga club's rivals Real Madrid from Old Trafford 13 years ago.
A move to the Metropolitano Stadium would allow Ronaldo to continue his long spell in the Champions League, after United were knocked down to the Europa League following their sixth place Premier League finish last season.
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However, the striker is also impressed with Diogo Simeone, with the manager eager to work with the legendary forward.
The report also adds that personal reasons are a big reason for the Portuguese's transfer request.
Ronaldo missed United's tour of Thailand and Australia because of these personal reasons, which are still unknown.
It was three wins and a draw for Erik ten Hag's men whilst on tour. With impressive victories against Liverpool and Crystal Palace.
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When speaking on the situation of the striker, Ten Hag has been relatively vague with details, but has insisted that he's not for sale this summer.
"We are planning with Cristiano Ronaldo this season and that's it. I look forward to working with him," the manager told journalists a couple of weeks ago.
"Cristiano is not for sale, he's in our plans and we want success together.
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"I spoke with him before this issue came up. I had a conversation with him and had a real good talk."
He reiterated those points earlier this week, adding that he believes that the forward can adapt to his style and excel.
“I think Cristiano is capable of pressing,” the United boss said. “In his career, he has shown everything. I have set my demand. We want to play in a certain way. A top player can contribute, and Ronaldo is an absolute top player in our squad.”
He even hinted at the fact that United could look to extend his stay at the Theatre of Dreams by activating the option for a further year in his contract.
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“I am well informed, he also has an option [of another year]. Yes [he could stay beyond next season]. Of course, I have signed here for three years but in football, it’s short-term as well.”
Featured Image Credit: AlamyTopics: Transfers, Manchester United, Manchester United Transfer News & Rumours, Atletico Madrid, Diego Simeone, Erik Ten Hag, Cristiano Ronaldo, Real Madrid, Football, Premier League, La Liga