Report – Mourinho ‘pledges number 7 shirt to Ronaldo
Jose Mourinho has reportedly promised to give Cristiano Ronaldo the number seven shirt at Manchester United should the Portugal forward return to Old Trafford from Real Madrid this summer.
Ronaldo left Man United for the Bernabeu in 2009 for a then world record fee and has established himself as one of the best players in the world, scoring 450 goals in 438 Los Blancos appearances and winning multiple trophies.
However, the 33-year-old has been rumoured to be considering a departure from the Spanish capital and described his time at Real in the past tense following this year’s Champions League final victory.
According to Spanish outlet Don Balon, negotiations are underway between the Red Devils and Real, who are planning a squad overhaul this summer and have earmarked Ronaldo for the exit door.
The report states that the Portuguese star has demanded the number seven shirt at United, which he wore during his first spell at Old Trafford, and his compatriot is happy to oblige.
Alexis Sanchez currently sports the famous number but Mourinho has reportedly told the Chilean that he must vacate the shirt should Ronaldo return to the club, or else face the prospect of finding a new club.
Ronaldo made 292 appearances for Man United, scoring 118 goals and registering 68 assists.