KEY POINTS

  • Cristiano Ronaldo is on the lookout for a new club
  • He will be able to join any club for free in January
  • Ronaldo is currently leading Portugal in the World Cup

Bayern Munich have "ruled out" signing Cristiano Ronaldo, who recently parted ways with Manchester United, ahead of the January window.

Ronaldo, who was in the final year of his deal with Manchester United, got his contract terminated earlier this month on mutual consent. The 37-year-old Portuguese forward will now be allowed to negotiate with any club over a contract when the winter window opens on Jan. 1.

Bayern Munich CEO Oliver Kahn, in an interview, admitted that while they all "love and admire" Ronaldo, the five-time Ballon d'Or winner "would not match with our ideas."

"Yes, I can rule that out. Of course, it was our duty to check if it would be a good fit. But we have a clear philosophy for our squad. We all admire and love Cristiano Ronaldo, but he would not match with our ideas," Kahn told Sky Sports Germany.

Bayern Munich have also been linked with Tottenham Hotspur striker Harry Kane.

"Kane is a very good player, but there are many other good players. Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting, who is performing very well for example. And I have read a lot about the Oliver Kahn wants Harry Kane rumors and we are looking into a lot of players, but I don't think it is okay to talk about players who are under contract with another club in public," added Kahn.

When Ronaldo was believed to be pushing for an exit from Manchester United in the summer of 2021, his agent Jorges Mendis approached the Bundesliga champions for a potential deal. However, Bayern Munich turned down a chance to sign the five-time Champions League winner. It looks like their decision has not changed.

Cristiano Ronaldo is keen to leave Manchester United
Cristiano Ronaldo played for Manchester United in two different spells AFP / Nigel Roddis

Ronaldo is currently leading Portugal in the FIFA World Cup in Qatar. He has netted one goal in two matches and his side has qualified for the Round of 16. Portugal will play their final group-stage game against South Korea on Friday.

The former Manchester United star is one goal away from becoming Portugal's joint all-time top scorer in the World Cup (nine goals), along with legendary former striker Eusebio.

Soccer