Man Utd ready to release Cristiano Ronaldo?

Manchester United are prepared to release Cristiano Ronaldo from his contract ahead of the New Year, according to ESPN.

The Portugal international was desperate to leave the Red Devils to play Champions League this summer, but no offers arrived.

Aside from Al-Hilal in Saudi Arabia, there were no clubs interested due to his hefty wages and he ended up staying put with United.

Ronaldo has since been in-and-out of the starting line-up for the club and it is now claimed that he could be leaving on a free transfer.

As per ESPN, the Red Devils are prepared to terminate his contract in January than keeping him until his deal expires next summer.

If Ronaldo were to leave in January, Erik ten Hag would no doubt want a replacement. Atletico Madrid's Joao Felix has been linked of late.

The Portuguese could be available on loan with a mandatory buy option. It remains to be seen whether United move for his services.