Cristiano Ronaldo continues push for Man Utd exit - Anthony Martial to stay
Manchester United have decided to keep Anthony Martial for the upcoming campaign after the French forward impressed in the early weeks of pre-season under Erik ten Hag.
Martial, now 26, left United on loan for Sevilla in January 2022 after losing his place in the Red Devils team last season following Cristiano Ronaldo's arrival. Martial endured a miserable spell in Spain, scoring only once in a Europa League game.
United have been open to selling Martial in the past due to his patchy form, high earnings and at times high value, but he is one player who has impressed since the arrival of the new manager.
Martial has looked a willing runner, energetic and sharp in United's pre-season outings so far, scoring three times in three games. He looks in line to start the Premier League opener against Brighton as United's first choice striker due to his form, as well as the continued absence of Ronaldo - who has not yet rejoined the squad since the end of last season.
Ronaldo has been excused from the tour of Thailand and Australia on personal grounds, but the position of the player and his representatives remains clear - that Ronaldo still wants to leave Old Trafford.
Jorge Mendes has been exploring possible options to take Ronaldo back to a club in the Champions League - links with Bayern Munich and Chelsea have existed in past weeks - while a move Atletico Madrid has also been suggested more recently.
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It is not yet known when Ronaldo will return to United if a move doesn't materialise in the coming weeks, though 90min understands he will not refuse to play if called upon when the league restarts.
Some sources believe that while no obvious destination is likely at present, Ronaldo will eventually force his way out to a new club. United are already light in the final third and their new stance on Martial - which has changed in recent months - is partly due to the fact they would be short if they lost both.
United are still interested in Ajax right winger Antony, though the two clubs remain some way apart on an agreeable fee. They have also been offered Barcelona forward Memphis Depay, but are not interested in pursuing a deal at this point.