Cristiano Ronaldo's transfer saga in 2003 highlighted strong interest from multiple clubs including Arsenal, Liverpool, and even Italian side Parma. While Arsenal was eager to sign him, they never made a formal approach unlike Parma, who sought Ronaldo as a replacement for Adrian Mutu after his departure to Chelsea. Ultimately, Manchester United secured Ronaldo's signature for £12m, despite initial discussions which suggested he would remain at Sporting Lisbon for another year. This marked a pivotal moment in both Ronaldo's career and the trajectory of Manchester United.
After breaking through at Sporting as a 17-year-old during the 2002/03 season, Ronaldo’s representatives quickly started speaking with clubs such as Liverpool and Barcelona, with Arsenal emerging as the most-interested party.
Arsenal were among the first to approach him; David Dein came to Lisbon to watch him in a game at the old Alvalade stadium. Arsene Wenger had received strong recommendations from Sporting boss Laszlo Boloni.
They were ultimately outbid by Manchester United, though, with the Red Devils paying 12m. Cristiano Ronaldo was wanted by Parma - but Manchester United blew them out the water.
Initially, they proposed a deal where Cristiano would remain in Portugal for another year. However, Ronaldo’s eventual decision to join Manchester United changed the landscape of football.
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