There were plenty of rumours about Newcastle United signing Cristiano Ronaldo late last year, and a new report has linked the Magpies with the forward once again.
Despite speculation about a move to Newcastle, Ronaldo moved to Saudi Arabian side Al-Nassr after being released by Manchester United.
However, a new report has claimed that the Toon owners have talked about making a move for the 38-year-old ahead of potentially qualifying for the Champions League.
Eddie Howe and PIF differ on Newcastle moving for Cristiano Ronaldo
According to 90min, Newcastle’s majority shareholders PIF have talked about potentially signing Ronaldo from Al-Nassr.
However, the report adds that Toon boss Eddie Howe does not want to sign one of the best players ever as he does not believe he would be a good fit at St James’ Park.
90min state that Newcastle will therefore not be making a move for Ronaldo, as PIF have no intentions of forcing Howe to work with a player that he does not want the club to sign.
Signing Ronaldo would be a huge mistake
It is understandable why PIF would like Newcastle to sign Ronaldo. He is one of the most famous faces on the planet, and it can be argued that he is the greatest footballer of all time. Bringing him to St James’ Park would be a brilliant decision commercially. He would bring even more eyes to Tyneside, while shirt sales would go through the roof.
But he is not the player he once was. This is not the same Cristiano Ronaldo who went toe-to-toe with Lionel Messi and won title after title. He is unfortunately a shadow of his former self – merely just a goalscorer who is often more of a hinderance to his side.
That is exactly what happened at Manchester United, with his emotional return to Old Trafford ending in tears. The way he went out was pretty embarrassing, with the two parties agreeing to part ways after a blockbuster interview with Piers Morgan.
In front of goal, Ronaldo is still world class. There is no denying that. Even back at Man United, his goalscoring record was impressive.
But it is everything else he does, or does not do, that explains why he would not be a good fit for Newcastle. He does not press from the front, nor is he a team player.
Signing Ronaldo would go against everything Newcastle have built over the past 18 or so months. The team spirit that Howe has created is exceptional, and a big reason why we are where we are today.
Luckily PIF recognise that, and do not plan to go against Howe’s wish and sign CR7.
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