Daniele Badolato via Getty Images - Juventus FC/Juventus FC
According to Fabrizio Romano, Juventus star Cristiano Ronaldo "definitely decided" to leave his club amid speculation about transfer deals.
Romano stated that Ronaldo will not be available for the next match and that Juventus is still waiting for an official bid from Manchester City.
ESPN's Gabriele Marcotti and Rodrigo Faez reported that Manchester City is "close" in reaching an agreement to sign the forward. Juventus is reportedly looking for around 28 million in a transfer fee.
This move comes just over a week following Ronaldo's Instagram post in which he rebuffed transfer rumors.
The player wrote, "More than my disrespect as a man, and as a football player, the frivolous manner that my future is covered by the media is disrespectful for all the clubs involved with these rumours as well as their players, and staff."
Manchester City may be on the lookout for a high-priced alternative after Harry Kane, initial target, reaffirmed his commitment towards Tottenham.
With the acquisition of Jack Grealish, the Premier League champions, the club already holds a British record. This was in addition to other attacking players such as Raheem Sterling, Gabriel Jesus, Kevin De Bruyne and Gabriel Jesus. The club could be even more powerful if they add one of the top players in the world from the past 20 years.
Ronaldo has been awarded the Ballon d'Or five more times during his career. This helped Manchester United, Real Madrid, and Juventus win league titles. After winning the final last year, Ronaldo has won five Champions League titles. He could now help Manchester City win their first title.
The 36-year old is still a threat on the pitch. He scored 60 goals in 66 Serie A matches during the past two seasons.
If Manchester City can complete the move before Tuesday's transfer window closes, it could lead to an exciting partnership.
