Manchester United chiefs 'open to Cristiano Ronaldo exit this summer'

Senior figures at Manchester United could reportedly encourage Cristiano Ronaldo to leave Old Trafford during this summer's transfer window.

The Portugal international has scored 18 times and registered three assists in 33 appearances for the 20-time English champions since returning to the club last summer.

Ronaldo's current deal in Manchester is due to run until June 2023, while there is the option to activate another 12 months on the agreement, potentially taking him until the middle of 2024.

However, there remains widespread speculation surrounding the 37-year-old, who could potentially seek a summer move if Man United fail to secure Champions League football for next season.

According to the Daily Mail, senior figures at Old Trafford could encourage the Portuguese to leave in the upcoming market, as he will not fit into Erik ten Hag's brand of football.

Ajax boss Ten Hag remains the favourite to be named the club's new head coach, but the two parties are allegedly yet to come to a full agreement on the position.

Man United will be bidding to return to winning ways in the Premier League when they welcome relegation-threatened Norwich City to Old Trafford this weekend.