Newcastle could battle Real Madrid for Ronaldo if he leaves Saudi

Real Madrid are the favourites to sign Cristiano Ronaldo but Newcastle could also be interested if the Portuguese star leaves Al Nassr this summer.

Ronaldo started playing for Al Nassr in the Saudi Arabian League after the World Cup. His contract was terminated by Manchester United in November.

Reports say he has already become tired of life there and wants to join a European club.

Return to Real the most likely option

Real Madrid, where he became arguably the club's greatest ever player from 2009 to 2018, are the favourites to sign Ronaldo at 11/8.

But Newcastle are not far behind the Spanish giants in the betting at 9/4. Would Eddie Howe welcome the 38-year-old to his squad that has enjoyed an excellent season and is heading for a top four finish?

Ronaldo's behaviour at Manchester United damaged his reputation - although he is 22/1 for an unlikely third stint at Old Trafford - as he repeatedly tried to undermine manager Erik ten Hag and agitated for a move.

That could put off other clubs this summer if the rumours about Ronaldo wanting to leave Al Nassr are true.

Sporting chance? Portuguese club 6/1

Sporting Lisbon, where he began his career, are 6/1 but they were reported to have turned down the chance to sign him previously, so the five-time Ballon d'Or winner may miss out on a fairytale ending to his career at the Portuguese club.

A move to the American MLS is 7/1 while PSG are 12/1. They have just suspended Lionel Messi for two weeks after he went on an allegedly unauthorised trip to Saudi.

Messi is 6/4 to sign for a Saudi top flight club this summer but a return to Barcelona is the current favourite for the World Cup winner at 4/6.