Cristiano Ronaldo absent from training again as Man Utd left unsure over return

Manchester United remain in the dark over when Cristiano Ronaldo will returning to training after he expressed a desire to quit Old Trafford.

The Portuguese superstar is a notable absentee at Carrington, missing the club's pre-season preparations for a second consecutive day. Ronaldo cited family reasons as an explanation, which United have accepted, but they remain unsure as to when he will be back in the north west.

Erik ten Hag is readying himself for his first season at the helm having arrived from Ajax this summer. Ronaldo had originally expressed a desire to be part of the club's rebuild, according to reports, but has now committed a u-turn as he plans to seek pastures new.

United's squad fly out to Bangkok on Friday for a pre-season tour of Thailand and Australia and questions as to whether Ronaldo will be heading out with them remains unanswered - which would be a blow commercially. It is an unwanted distraction for the club and leaves them in the lurch regarding their summer recruitment.

The No.7 has commanded the forward position and his sudden exit would leave the Red Devils in need of a replacement. Edinson Cavani has left the club whilst doubts persist over Anthony Martial and Marcus Rashford. United have already struggled in the market in recent months and needing to add a marquee striker would only add to their issues.

United maintain that Ronaldo, who was the club's top scorer last term with 24 goals, has a year left on his deal and they expect him to see it out. The player though was able to force his exit from Juventus less than 12 months ago and plans to do likewise at Old Trafford.

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Bayern Munich have been linked with a move whilst a return to Italy and a reunion with Jose Mourinho at Roma has been reported. Chelsea though have emerged as a shock destination, in what would be a monumental Premier League switch.

American Todd Boehly has recently purchased the west London club and wants to make a statement by adding a marquee signing this summer. Ronaldo would fit the bill and talks have been held with the player's agent, Jorge Mendes, about a possible move.

Thomas Tuchel though is not sold on the idea despite allowing Romelu Lukaku to leave recently. Chelsea's priorities are reinforcing their defence and the German wants to remain focused on that whilst also favouring a move for Manchester City's Raheem Sterling.