Cristiano Ronaldo's near two-decade long relationship with agent Jorge Mendes 'falling apart'

Cristiano Ronaldo's near two-decade relationship with long-time agent Jorge Mendes is reportedly starting to fall apart.

The Portuguese superstar, following his country's exit from the World Cup, is looking for a new club after succeeding in having his Manchester United contract terminated last month.

Spanish publication AS Sport have reported that tension between Ronaldo and Mendes has 'rocketed' over the former's future, and that clubs are now bypassing the agent and going straight to the player himself.

The 56-year-old super agent has represented Ronaldo ever since he left Sporting Lisbon to join Manchester United in 2003.

One interested party in Ronaldo's services is Antero Henrique, head of the Qatar Stars League.

Henrique is said to have gone straight to Ronaldo to express an interest in bringing him back to the gulf nation following the World Cup.

There had also been reports that Ronaldo could join Saudi Arabian side Al Nassr on January 1.

Sources close to Ronaldo told Sportsmail reports of a deal being complete were 'nonsense'.

While Henrique is looking to bring Ronaldo back to Qatar, Mendes is said to be working on an alternative proposal for his client.

AS Sport claim that Ronaldo and Mendes are going through a 'rocky spell' in their relationship.

This wouldn't be the first time there have been trains in their partnership, as what has felt like a 'father and son' relationship has experienced 'ups and downs' over the years.

A similar situation happened before when Ronaldo left Juventus. The Portuguese stars financial demands don't help if he wishes to remain in Europe.

Ronaldo kissed goodbye to £16million after leaving his £500,000-a-week contract at Man United seven months early.

The 37-year-old effectively forced through his exit following his controversial interview with Piers Morgan, in which he said he felt 'betrayed' by the club and 'didn't respect' the manager, Erik ten Hag.

The forward turns 38 in under two months time, a key factor as to why his options appear to be limited.

Ronaldo scored just one goal at the World Cup and was dropped after the group stage.

But he did equal the men's international appearance record in the defeat to Morocco, earning his 196th cap for Portugal - a career which includes 118 goals.