Manchester United’s board have impressed Cristiano Ronaldo and his representatives by their response to his request, amid interest from Chelsea for the player.
The Portugal superstar shocked the club this month when he informed them that he wanted to leave and urged United to listen to offers for him.
Erik ten Hag spoke with Ronaldo at the end of last campaign and was planning his team around keeping the veteran after their conversation.
Ronaldo’s subsequent request to leave shocked the Dutchman and threw the Red Devils’ transfer strategy into uncertainty.
But the Times claim that the manner in which John Murtough, Richard Arnold and Ten Hag have dealt with Ronaldo’s request has impressed him.
The club have been buoyed by that response and feel that they’re ‘making headway’ in convincing Ronaldo to remain at United this season.
United will not countenance selling Ronaldo to Chelsea, despite the London club showing the most interest in the forward.
They therefore hope Ronaldo will withdraw his request and that a line can be drawn under the saga before the Premier League season starts.
United take on Liverpool in a pre-season friendly game in Bangkok this afternoon, with Ten Hag set to take charge of his first game as Red Devils manager.
Tyrell Malacia could make his debut for the club after his arrival from Feyenoord.
