Cristiano Ronaldo has reportedly informed his Juventus teammates that he’ll be joining Manchester City this month.
Speculation is rife that the Portugal international is ready to leave Italy following a disappointing campaign for Juventus in which they missed out on winning the Serie A title.
Ronaldo reportedly requested to be left out of the starting XI for Juventus’ opening match of the season against Udinese.
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner was subsequently named on the bench, coming on with half an hour to go in the 2-2 draw.
After the match, Juventus vice-chairman Pavel Nedved played down there being a problem, telling DAZN: “Do not look for sensational things when there aren’t any.
“It was a joint decision with the coach because we’re at the start of the season and it is normal that he’s not fully fit.”
But according to Sky Italia, Ronaldo has informed his Juve teammates he plans to leave this month and sign for Manchester City.
Pep Guardiola’s City recently U-turned on their decision to target Ronaldo after Harry Kane announced he would be staying at Tottenham.
Kane was expected to complete a British record transfer to Man City this summer with Spurs holding out for £150million.
Man City offered £50million less than Daniel Levy’s valuation, and after refusing to budge, had to accept that the transfer would not be happening.
Kane tweeted on Wednesday: “It was incredible to see the reception from the Spurs fans on Sunday and to read some of the messages of support I’ve had in the last few weeks.
“I will be staying at Tottenham this summer and will be 100 per cent focused on helping the team achieve success.”
Ronaldo is now Man City’s number one target, with the club keen to snap up a centre-forward after parting company with Sergio Aguero.
Ronaldo is reportedly available for around £25million, although Juventus are yet to receive a bid for the Portugal international.
