Cristiano Ronaldo moves a step closer to Man Utd by appointing Jose Mourinho's lawyer

REAL MADRID star Cristiano Ronaldo appears to have taken a step closer to returning to Manchester United by appointing the same lawyers as Jose Mourinho.

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Ronaldo left Manchester United eight years ago - has gone on to become Real Madrid’s all-time leading scorer - but still talk of a return to Old Trafford remains.

The 32-year-old was reportedly unhappy earlier in the summer, wanting to quit Spain after having his reputation dragged through the mud after being accused of tax fraud by the authorities.

United, inevitably, were among the clubs linked. Express Sport understands Jose Mourinho was keen but the Red Devils were wary of being used to negotiate a new Real contract.

Yet Spanish newspaper El Mundo suggest the prospect of a comeback is not entirely out of the question.

Any Ronaldo to United stories must be taken with a pinch of salt given how regularly they are posted every year.

But there seems to be something in this about Ronaldo opening the doors a little to a Premier League return.

It is said the 32-year-old has appointed the same lawyer as Mourinho, named Jose Antonio Choclan, on the advice of agent Jorge Mendes.

Mendes is also in charge of Mourinho’s affairs and has influence at United in the form of David De Gea as well.

Catalan newspaper Mundo Deportivo then add that Ronaldo could be set to quit Real at the first opportunity.

Cristiano Ronaldo Man Utd Real MadridGETTY

Cristiano Ronaldo has appointed the same lawyers as Manchester United boss Jose Mourinho

His decision to appoint Choclan, who is known for negotiating tax sentences, suggests he could be about to accept defeat in his legal battle. 

And that could see him head back to England, where he has always praised in the past.

In August, the Portugal international admitted in court that he was determined to ply his trade in England once again.

"I never had these problems in England. That's why I want to go back there,” he said. 

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