Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe has shut down reports of Cristiano Ronaldo joining the club from Al-Nassir next season.
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Spanish newspaper Marca claimed the former Manchester United forward has a clause in his reported £174m-per-year contract to link up with the Magpies next campaign if they can qualify for the Champions League.
But Howe has rubbished the story, The Magpies head coach, speaking ahead of the clash at Premier League leaders Arsenal, told Sky Sports: “We wish Cristiano all the best with his new venture but there’s no truth in that from our perspective.”
A takeover of the Premier League team by the Saudi Arabian Public Investment Fund was completed in October 2021.
Over the past 15 months, they have invested well in players, and turned around the club’s fortunes from relegation to being in the right place for Europe’s top tournament.
The Magpies currently sit in third place in the Premier League, behind Manchester City, and Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal in pole position.
Ronaldo was unveiled as an Al-Nassr player in Riyadh today after his controversial departure from Old Trafford. When speaking to the media, the 37-year-old said his time in Europe was over.
“For me, I’m really happy to be here and I know the league is competitive,” the six-time Ballon d’Or winner said. I’ve watched many games. I am so proud at making this big decision in my life and my career. My work in Europe is done. I played for all the most important clubs.
“I had many opportunities in Europe. Many clubs in Brazil, Australia, in the US and even Portugal. For me, this is a good chance with my knowledge and experience to grow very important clubs.”
