LONDON, England, June 27- Cristiano Ronaldo will meet Manchester United officials “in the next few days” to talk about a potential return to Old Trafford, Spanish newspaper El Pais has claimed.
Real Madrid star Ronaldo, who moved to the Bernabeu from United in a world record £80 million deal in 2009, has been linked with a move back to the Premier League champions since before the end of the season.
El Pais said the talks would attempt to ascertain the feasibility of a move, although it is likely that new Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti would be reluctant to sanction the sale of the club’s top goalscorer.
New United manager David Moyes’ immediate focus is likely to be on resolving the future of England forward Wayne Rooney, who has been linked with a transfer.
PSG, Bayern Munich, Chelsea and Arsenal are among the clubs reported to be interested in Rooney, who made his Premier League debut under the management of Moyes at Everton.
Meanwhile, Manchester United confirmed Wednesday that first team coach Rene Meulensteen was leaving the English champions.
The Dutchman’s exit had been widely forecast following the departures of both Mike Phelan and Eric Steele, two other members of the backroom staff, since David Moyes replaced Alex Ferguson as manager following the veteran Scottish boss’s retirement at the end of last season.
“I would like to thank Sir Alex Ferguson, the owners, all colleagues, players and fans who made my time at Manchester United very special and one I will never forget,” said Meulensteen in a United statement.
“I wish everyone at this great football club all the best.”
United executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward added: “I’d like to thank Rene for his contribution to the club, particularly since he returned to Old Trafford in 2007.
“He has been first-team coach for five years and in that time he has given great assistance to Alex and Mike Phelan in keeping the team at the top of the game, not only in this country but in Europe as well.
“On behalf of everyone at United, I wish him well for the future.”
– ESPN & AFP
