Whenever there are talks about Manchester United targeting a player from the Saudi Pro League, the name of Cristiano Ronaldo will appear with the question, what if?
Well, Cristiano Ronaldo is not coming back to Europe. Not this time. The Portuguese icon has signed a massive new contract with Al-Nassr, making him the highest-paid footballer in the world.
That dream reunion at Old Trafford is off the table. But Manchester United have not wasted time.
They need a striker who has presence, strength, and goals in him. Bryan Mbeumo was the target at first. Talks were held. Offers were made.
But Brentford have rejected Manchester United’s bids so far for the player. And now, Manchester United have set a clear Bryan Mbeumo transfer deadline.
In the meantime, United took a step back. They scanned the market. Then their eyes locked on someone familiar.
Not a superstar like Ronaldo, but someone who knows the Premier League, someone who once bullied defenders in England and is now shining in Saudi Arabia.
This player has just wrapped up a strong season in the Middle East, 23 goals in 30 games.
A forward with pace, power, and a real knack for finding the net. Ruben Amorim likes the player. And they believe he is ready to return.
The price is lower than Mbeumo’s, too. Al-Ahli bought him for £42 million, but now his value has dropped to £25 million.
United have already made their move: £30 million up front, plus £5 million in add-ons. Talks are underway.
According to sources, that player is Ivan Toney. Once Brentford’s main man is now back on the radar of top clubs.
At 29, she is still sharp, hungry, and United see him as a real option. It is not the Ronaldo reunion some hoped for, but it could still be a signing that makes headlines, for all the right reasons.
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