Brazil legend and former Barcelona ace Rivaldo has given his take on Manchester United striker Cristiano Ronaldo's next possible destination. The retired professional believes that rivals Chelsea could be the ideal destination for the Portuguese, who does not want to stop playing at the highest level yet.
The striker has not joined his teammates on their pre-season tour of Thailand and Australia, citing "family reasons." However, Cristiano Ronaldo's absence has been perceived as a push for an exit from Manchester United.
His agent Jorge Mendes has offered the 37-year-old to various clubs, including Chelsea and Bayern Munich. He also reportedly had a meeting with Barcelona president Joan Laporta and is believed to have offered him the striker.
Rivaldo suggested that a transfer to Chelsea would do well for all parties. "I see Chelsea as a nice option for him to continue his career at the highest level by competing in both the Premier League and UEFA Champions League - fighting for titles, something he really considers most important at this late stage of his career."However, the switch that Rivaldo is suggesting does not seem possible either. Fabrizio Romano reported that although new owner Todd Boehly was interested in signing Cristiano Ronaldo, manager Thomas Tuchel is against his signing.
On the possible switch to Camp Nou, Rivaldo doesn't take this possibility seriously and does not see it as a sensible move. He added: "There are rumors circulating that the Portuguese star was a hot topic of conversation between Barcelona president Juan Laporta and the player's agent, though I personally doubt there is any serious interest from the club or even from the player in taking up such a move."
The Manchester United superstar was a thorn in the side of the Catalan club and its fans during his nine seasons at the Santiago Bernabeu. The Brazilian legend believes it is not worth spoiling the dynamic that the Portuguese has with the Los Blancos faithful.
He said:"I would not expect the Blaugrana fans to receive the ex-Madrid man very well and at the same time, I also cannot fathom why Cristiano Ronaldo would choose to spoil his beautiful love story at Real Madrid by moving to their oldest rivals. I wouldn't advise such a move in any way, shape or form."