Cristiano Ronaldo contacted by Sporting over shock transfer return with club bosses confident of poaching Man Utd star

CRISTIANO RONALDO could be heading back to Portugal after his first club Sporting Lisbon sounded him out over a return home.

The Old Trafford icon, 37, rejoined Manchester United last August from Italian giants Juventus.

He bagged 24 goals in 38 games for the Red Devils but was deeply frustrated by the team’s sixth-place finish in the Premier League.

Ronaldo has told new United manager Erik ten Hag he is ready to stay and help the Dutchman start to rebuild — but only if he is wanted.

Despite finishing as the club’s top scorer, Ronaldo was regularly criticised for his lack of pressing.

And he is understood to be disappointed by United’s lack of action so far in the transfer market.

The Sun on Sunday understands bosses at Sporting, where Ronaldo played 25 league games before signing for United in 2003, believe they can lure him back to Lisbon.

A source said: “Sporting know that Ronaldo loves winning trophies.

“That looks a long way away at United at the moment and time is running out for Ronaldo.

“So what better way to finish his career than move back home and play in Portugal. 

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“It’s a strong league and a great lifestyle.

“Senior officials have made enquiries and let Ronaldo know they are interested if he wishes to leave United.”

A move home would also delight his mum Dolores.

Last September she told a Portuguese podcast: “He has to come back.

"I already told him: ‘Son, before I die I want to see you return to Sporting’.

"‘Let’s see...’, he said.”