Ronaldo ‘set to join Atletico Madrid’ as Jorge Mendes works on Simeone to aid mutual ‘seduction’

Will Ford
Cristiano Ronaldo celebrates his goal

Cristiano Ronaldo is reportedly ‘set to join Atletico Madrid’ this summer after Jorge Mendes persuaded Diego Simeone to make a move for the striker.

Ronaldo has been linked with a number of (every) top European club after he told Manchester United he wanted to leave the club.


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The 37-year-old, who scored 24 goals on his return to Old Trafford last season, told the Red Devils he wanted out as he wants to be playing Champions League football in the twilight of his career.

His representatives held a meeting with Chelsea owner Todd Boehly before manager Thomas Tuchel said he didn’t want the Portugal international, Bayern Munich and PSG were linked but have denied interest, while there was a report of a sensational bid from an unamed Saudi Arabian club, which has been snubbed by Ronaldo.

And now Atletico, one of the few clubs that remain a possibility for Ronaldo, given his desire for Champions League football, are in the mix according to reports in Spain.

A report on Monday claimed the La Liga giants are showing an interest in Ronaldo this summer with ‘some contact’ from the La Liga outfit.

It is understood that Ronaldo continues to ‘stands firm’ on his stance that he wants a move away from Man Utd this summer and has been ‘seduced’ by Simeone.

And Diario AS (via Daily Mail) claim Mendes has been in touch with Simeone and he too has been seduced by the idea of landing Ronaldo, who is now ‘set to join Atletico Madrid’.

The striker has also been linked with a return to boyhood club Sporting Lisbon, but the man himself quickly dispelled those rumours, commeting ‘Fake’ on an Instagram post Sport TV Portugal claiming his car was spotted at the club’s stadium.

And Sporting director Hugo Viana added to fans’ disappointment, saying: “I think not now – I don’t think it is possible, but you never know.

“He can decide where he goes, but you never know the future. I don’t want to talk about that, but he has another year on his contract so whatever he decides, let’s see.”