Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe has denied reports that his side have an option to sign Cristiano Ronaldo on loan should they qualify for the Champions League this season.
Ronaldo was unveiled as a new Al-Nassr player today following his lucrative free transfer to the Saudi Arabian club on Friday.
The 37-year-old, who will reportedly earn up to £177m per year at his new employers, said at his unveiling that he had "many opportunities" to join clubs around the world before settling on Al-Nassr.
Reports had suggested that his contract included a clause which would allow him to join Newcastle, who are also under Saudi ownership, on loan in the summer should the Magpies qualify for next season's Champions League.
However, Howe has shut down those rumours, insisting that there is "no truth" in the speculation.
© Reuters
Speaking to Sky Sports News ahead of Newcastle's match against Arsenal on Tuesday, Howe said: "We wish Cristiano all the best in his venture, but, from our point of view, there's no truth in that."
Newcastle go into their match against Arsenal sitting third in the Premier League table, four points clear of fifth-placed Tottenham Hotspur.
Ronaldo, meanwhile, was understood to be keen to extend his Champions League career for as long as possible, in part to remain ahead of Lionel Messi in the competition's all-time goalscoring charts.
The Portugal international left Manchester United by mutual consent in November following an explosive interview which saw him criticise the club's lack of development and his manager Erik ten Hag.
The five-time Ballon d'Or winner has now put pen to paper on a deal which will see him stay at Al-Nassr until 2025.
