Cristiano Ronaldo to stay at Man United due to 'lack of interest' and more transfer rumours

Cristiano Ronaldo is reportedly set to remain at Manchester United beyond the January transfer window due to a lack of interest from other clubs.

United's summer saw Ronaldo's future at the club come under constant scrutiny, as the 37-year-old sought to leave Old Trafford in pursuit of Champions League football. A move failed to materialise before the September 1 deadline, with a handful of top European clubs registering their interest in the five-time Ballon d'Or winner, but failing to make a concrete move for him.

According to ESPN, Ronaldo faces a similar problem in January, as they report that there is insufficient interest from clubs in his services. The report claims that Erik ten Hag would be reluctant to let the Portuguese international leave, despite the Dutchman only starting Ronaldo in one Premier League game so far this season.

After a summer of heavy spending, Ten Hag might not have the assurances that the club have the funds available to sign an adequate replacement for Ronaldo should he leave United.

Elsewhere, Gazzetta dello Sport (via Caught Offside) report that United are set to battle Chelsea for the signing of Inter Milan defender Alessandro Bastoni.

The 23-year-old left-footed centre-back is believed to be in high demand across Europe, with both Tottenham and Manchester City also thought to be keeping a close on eye on Bastoni's situation. The Italian's contract at Inter runs out at the end of next season, meaning that a host of clubs are on high alert to make a move for the defender should the Serie A giants decide to cash in on their player, rather than risk losing him on a free next season.

Ten Hag is certainly keen on left-footed players at Old Trafford, as shown by the arrivals of Tyrell Malacia, Lisandro Martinez and Antony — whether Bastoni is next to join the ranks is yet to be seen.