Respected journalist drops major Ronaldo update with key club's transfer plans outlined

Chelsea have no plans to sign Cristiano Ronaldo following the striker's departure from Manchester United, according to a new report.

The Red Devils announced on Wednesday evening that Ronaldo has left the club for the second time in his career.

United confirmed the decision was by mutual agreement.

It follows on from a highly controversial interview that Ronaldo gave to Piers Morgan last week, in which he criticised the club's owner's, the Glazer family, manager Erik ten Hag and hit out at a perceived lack of improvement in club facilities since he first left Old Trafford in 2009.

United released an official statement to accompany their announcement, which read: "Cristiano Ronaldo is to leave Manchester United by mutual agreement, with immediate effect.

"The club thanks him for his immense contribution across two spells at Old Trafford, scoring 145 goals in 346 appearances, and wishes him and his family well for the future.

"Everyone at Manchester United remains focused on continuing the team's progress under Erik ten Hag and working together to deliver success on the pitch."

The potential identity of Ronaldo's next club has been discussed ever since the interview with Morgan dropped, with the latest news putting that into sharp focus.

Chelsea have been one of the clubs linked with signing him. Reports in the summer claimed that Blues owner Todd Boehly is a big fan of the player, but former boss Thomas Tuchel was not keen on signing him.

They could now attempt to secure his signature again as a free agent - but a new report makes their current position on bringing Ronaldo to Stamford Bridge clear.

Chelsea not interested in signing Ronaldo

The Telegraph's Matt Law has reported that Chelsea have 'no current plans' to sign Ronaldo, with the Blues focusing their attention on other transfer targets instead.

It is claimed that the club will focus on improving the defence and midfield instead, with Jude Bellingham and Declan Rice both names that have been linked as players that are interesting Chelsea.

They both started England's 6-2 win over Iran in the World Cup on Monday, and will likely be key players for Gareth Southgate's side throughout the tournament.

According to the Daily Mirror, Ronaldo has been fined £50,000 and handed a two-game suspension by the FA for knocking a fan's mobile phone to the ground, after being charged with 'improper and/or violent conduct' following an incident against Everton in April. It is claimed that the FA will announce the sanction on Wednesday.

That means, if the ban is officially announced, and he was to sign for another Premier League club, he would miss the first two domestic matches he was available for.