Cristiano Ronaldo is now set to rejoin Manchester United, after Manchester City pulled out of the race to sign him, sources have told ESPN.
City were offered the chance to sign Ronaldo and although a move was considered, they have decided not to pursue him.
On Friday, Juventus manager Max Allegri confirmed that the 36-year-old wants to leave the club before the transfer deadline.
City were tempted to explore the possibility of signing Ronaldo after Harry Kane announced he would be staying at Tottenham Hotspur, and that the Portugal international was keen to move to the Etihad Stadium.
City, according to sources, considered signing Ronaldo but decided it was not the right fit, particularly because of the finances involved. Juventus are asking for a fee of around €28 million while Ronaldo’s wage demands would also have to be met.
Sources have told ESPN there is now an expectation at the Etihad Stadium that Ronaldo will join rivals Manchester United. Ole Gunnar Solskjaer refused to rule out the possibility at his news conference on Friday.