Cristiano Ronaldo transfer rumors heat up after call with a familiar name

A reunion between José Mourinho and Cristiano Ronaldo at Fenerbahçe has taken center stage on social media and international headlines. Unlikely as it may seem at first glance, the Turkish dream goes from conversation to fan campaigning, with a pinch of added nostalgia.

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Fenerbahçe's strategy to lure CR7

Fenerbahçe has a bold goal: bringing Cristiano Ronaldo to Turkey. According to the Spanish newspaper Diario AS, the club’s director of soccer, Mário Blanco, has already initiated talks with Jorge Mendes, Ronaldo’s agent. Additionally, Mourinho reportedly reached out to Ronaldo directly, gauging his interest in leaving Al-Nassr and offering him the opportunity to play under his command once more.

The connection between the two Portuguese stars, who worked together at Real Madrid from 2010 to 2013, is seen as a key asset in this negotiation. Even though their partnership ended with some tension, many believe that time has healed old wounds and both are now ready to reunite professionally. This personal bond should be what finally unlocks for Fenerbahçe a deal that was otherwise beyond their reach financially.

The challenge of Ronaldo's astronomical salary

Undoubtedly, one of the biggest hurdles for Fenerbahçe lies in Ronaldo's astronomical salary. Currently at Al-Nassr, he reportedly rakes in around €222 million annually-a figure well beyond the pay grade of the Turkish club. Unless external sponsorships and even a potential pay cut from the player himself are made, the chances of this transfer materializing are slim.

Still, it's difficult to discount the optimism of the fans. There's a social media campaign, entitled "Come to Fenerbahçe," that captured world attention and was designed to give Ronaldo an impression he would be accepted as a hero in Istanbul. The emotional appeal and the opportunity to be considered the greatest star in Turkish soccer history could finally weigh in Fenerbahçe's balance.

What Mourinho brings to the table

José Mourinho is one of the world's best coaches, and with Ronaldo, it was personal instead of professional; it was historical. Together, they had great success at Real Madrid, including a record-breaking La Liga title in the 2011-12 season.

Besides, Mourinho is a great narrator of stories. A reunion with Ronaldo can heighten not only the team's performance but also position Fenerbahçe at the center of worldwide attention. Such a deal would be a calculated step towards building on Mourinho's reputation and strengthening his status in football.