Ronaldo to Fenerbahce? Mourinho responds to shock link

Tom Weber

• Updated: 24 Nov 2024 06:59 CST
• 3 min read

Jose Mourinho has rubbished reports that Fenerbahce could sign Cristiano Ronaldo.

Earlier this week, a shocking rumour emerged that the Portuguese coaching legend had personally called Ronaldo to ask about his availability next year with a view to potentially bringing him to Fenerbahce.

Mourinho previously coached the 39-year-old at Real Madrid and the latter is, as things stand, a free agent next summer. Ronaldo joined Al-Nassr from Man Utd in January 2023 and penned a deal until summer 2025.

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However, the Saudi giants are determined to extend the megastar's contract by a year, allowing the Pro League more leverage in upcoming negotiations with interested parties over a new broadcast deal and Ronaldo to keep playing until the 2026 World Cup.

Ronaldo is not averse to staying at Al-Nassr and recently revealed that he indeed plans to keep playing until 2026, casting doubt on Fenerbahce's chances of potentially landing him.

Mourinho responds

Mourinho himself has now responded to the transfer rumour and ruled out a move for the striker. "I don't know anything, I just know that I am very happy with my players," the 61-year-old said.

"Maybe one day he can come for lunch. Istanbul is almost in the middle of Arabia and Portugal. He will get on his private jet and visit his old friend Jose and we will have lunch together.

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"If you ask if he will play for Fenerbahce, either they don't know what they are writing or those who do like to write ridiculous news.

"If a player joins the team in January, he must be a very good player. I am very happy that I am developing the players I have. I remember Oguz Aydin when he first came, I see the development of Levent [Mercan]. In UEFA, we have a problem with homegrown players.

"If something happens in the winter transfer window, it must be a very good player because I am very happy with the players I have."