Arsenal legend Arsene Wenger reveals how close Cristiano Ronaldo was to joining Gunners

An 18-year-old shrewd teenr Cristia Ronaldo took world by storm by his dazzling footwork and step overs, exciting veneration among Old Trafford faithful. Portuguese international went on to establish a legacy of his own with Manchester United, winning almost every possible accole under Sir Alex Ferguson. But, t much is kwn about Arsenal's interest in signing him back n, with Arsene Wenger w spilling beans on same. 

Also Re | Iconic former Arsenal manger Arsene Wenger rejects opportunity to join Barcelona: Report

Arsenal h an agreement with Cristia Ronaldo, reveals Arsene Wenger 

Former Arsenal manr Arsene Wenger has revealed that Cristia Ronaldo h agreed to join Gunners before Man United swooped in to sign teen sensation. During an interaction with Guardian, Wenger was asked about that one failed signing that he regrets till date. 

French tactician humorously proclaims that he regrets at least 50 failed signings. But Cristia Ronaldo was closest player to join Arsenal before he agreed to switch to Old Trafford, says Wenger. former Gunners boss reveals that club h an agreement alrey in place with Sporting Lisbon to rope in n 18-year-old. 

Also Re | Mesut Ozil receives £8m 'Arsenal loyalty bonus' despite t featuring this season

Arsene Wenger recalls lunch with Cristia Ronaldo

Wenger furr recalls that he h lunch with Cristia Ronaldo and his mor at training ground after deal. But Man United swung into action and roped in Carlos Queiroz as ir assistant coach, furr following it up with signing of Cristia Ronaldo in time. 

tably, Cristia Ronaldo isn't only prominent star who did t land at Emirates under watchful eyes of Wenger. former manr, previously, h mitted that Arsenal attempted to sign Lionel Messi and Gerard Pique as well. But Gunners h to settle with arrival of Cesc Fabregas only. 

Also Re | Arsenal transfer news: Mesut Ozil declines opportunity to join Saudi side Al-Nassr for £5m

Cristia Ronaldo's Man United stint that excites veneration till date 

Cristia Ronaldo went to achieve immense success with Red Devils during his six-season stay that culminated with his departure to Real Mrid for a n world-record transfer fee to tune of £80 million. He won his first of five Ballon d'Or titles with Man United after ir Champions League victory against Chelsea in 2008. Besides, he also dominated Premier League with 84 goals, winning three consecutive titles.  

Also Re | Cristia Ronaldo is highest-paid athlete on Instagram, raking in $889K per post

Im courtesy: fifa.com/ Premier League Twitter