Rob Dawson believes a return to Old Trafford now is possible after Manchester City pulled out of the race for him. (1:52).
Sources tell ESPN that Manchester City has pulled out of the race for Cristiano Ronaldo's signature. However, rivals Manchester United are in advanced talks to land a remarkable deal.
Although City was offered the opportunity to sign the 36 year-old, they decided to not move forward.
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, Manchester United manager, suggested that Ronaldo could be a target for the club at his news conference Friday afternoon. Sources have confirmed to ESPN that Ronaldo was interested in returning to Old Trafford after United made it known to Juventus. He also asked the Serie A side to start negotiations. Ronaldo signed a deal with Real Madrid for 80 million in 2009, leaving United.
Although swap deals have been made with United players who are moving to Turin, sources say that ESPN United is now ready to pay Juventus' 28 million valuation. If the clubs reach an agreement, Ronaldo will be able to have a medical in Lisbon this weekend. Ronaldo flew from Italy in a private plane on Friday. ESPN has been told by sources that United is "confident" that they will reach a deal and that negotiations are ongoing.
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Massimiliano Allegri, manager of Juventus, confirmed Friday that Ronaldo wanted out before the deadline for the transfer window on Aug. 31.
Sources claim that City was tempted by Ronaldo's signing after Harry Kane said he would stay at Tottenham Hotspur. They also believed that Ronaldo wanted to move to the Etihad Stadium before United became interested. Sources claim that City considered signing Ronaldo, but ultimately decided against it, especially given the financial implications.
ESPN was told by Ronaldo that he was still exchanging WhatsApp messages and texts with ex-players late on Friday morning.
Wayne Rooney, who was a player alongside Ronaldo at United said on Thursday that he didn't believe Ronaldo would put his reputation at Old Trafford at risk by signing for City.
Sources tell ESPN that Ronaldo was warned by his former teammates that he would lose his place in United's history and the love he has with the fans if he signed to City.
This report was based on information from ESPN's Mark Ogden.
