LONDON: Chelsea are interested in signing Manchester United star Cristiano Ronaldo after the player was sidelined by manager Erik ten Hag.

Ronaldo, 37, refused to come on as a substitute at the end of Wednesday’s game against Tottenham Hotspur, and he left the pitch with the game still in progress.

As a result, Ten Hag did not field the five-time Ballond d’Or winner for the 1-1 draw at Chelsea, and ordered Ronaldo to train alone at Carrington.

The Portuguese forward’s future with the Red Devils is now back in question with speculation that the club are ready to let him go in January for free if there is no offer.

Chelsea is said to be interested in Ronaldo’s services ahead of the January transfer window. Last summer, the West London club contacted the player’s representative to discuss his transfer.

New Chelsea owner Todd Boehly reportedly wants to bring Ronaldo to Stamford Bridge, but former manager Thomas Tuchel has other plans.

Now that Tuchel has been replaced by Graham Potter, Boehly is expected to continue his desire to get in touch with Ronaldo until the end of the season before having the option to extend his contract for next season.

It is seen as the best choice for the Real Madrid and United legend who hopes for the best end to his glorious career.