Julien Laurens believes that Cristiano Ronaldo should choose Manchester City or nothing if he wants Juventus to be his next home. (1:22).
Ronaldo believes Man City is his only way out (1:22).
Sources tell ESPN that Manchester City and Cristiano Ronaldo are close together to an agreement on a sensational move for the Etihad Stadium.
ESPN was told by sources that Pep Guardiola, City boss, and Ronaldo talked on the phone Thursday morning in advance of Ronaldo's possible departure from Juventus.
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Sources said that although there are still obstacles to overcome, including Juventus' demand for a payment, there is some optimism that a deal could be reached.
Juventus would need around 28 million to allow Ronaldo to leave, but there is an eagerness to get the 36 year-old off the wage bill.
ESPN reported that Ronaldo's representatives had been gauging interest from Europe’s top clubs in June amid the possibility of him moving this summer.
City was initially approached by Ronaldo's Camp. Although they initially didn't like the idea, their interest grew after confirmation that Harry Kane would remain at Tottenham Hotspur during this window.
Guardiola is looking for a striker who can replace Sergio Aguero. Kane was the club’s top target prior to the England captain committing his immediate future to Spurs.
According to ESPN sources, Massimiliano Allegri, the Juventus coach, is "relaxed," about the possibility that Ronaldo will be lost. However, he would like the club to sign another forward in his place. The summer window will close on August 31.
ESPN has been told by sources that City and Juventus have not yet opened talks on a deal. It is possible that a compromise would need to be reached over the asking price.
Ronaldo, who was recently criticized on Instagram for his "disrespectful transfer talk", featured in the second-half as Juventus started their season with a draw with Udinese at 2-2 on Sunday. On Wednesday, he was reported to have suffered an arm injury and withdrew from training.
Since his arrival from Real Madrid in 2018, he has scored 101 goals in 134 matches for Juventus.
Five-time Ballon d'Or Winner Ronaldo also spent six seasons at City's Manchester rivals Manchester United between 2003 and 2009. He won the Champions League title and three Premier League titles.
This report was based on information from Rob Dawson, ESPN's correspondent.
