Cristiano Ronaldo and his agent met for transfer talks with Bayern Munich just hours before his bombshell interview, reports say.

Ronaldo’s future at Manchester United is in serious doubt after he savaged the club in a world exclusive sit down with The Sun’s Piers Morgan. The Portugal legend claimed he had no respect for manager Erik ten Hag and believed Old Trafford bosses were trying to force him out.

Details of the meeting between Ronaldo and Bayern Munich representatives have not been made public, but it is possible it had a strong bearing on the striker’s blistering attack on his current employers at Old Trafford.

Ronaldo is now with his international team-mates ahead of the 2022 World Cup while United are ready to rip up his contract. According to The Mail, the player and his agent have already spoken to German champions Bayern about a move.

The meeting is said to have taken place in England, following previous talks in the summer when Ronaldo looked to leave United. As revealed by SunSport, Old Trafford chefs are ready to tear up Ronaldo’s contract after his brutal criticism of the club.

Furious boss Ten Hag met yesterday with bosses and the side are now exploring their legal options. United believe Ronaldo is undermining the progress being made under their new Dutch boss and the togetherness he has fostered in the camp.

Several of his team-mates are also finished with the 37-year-old after his latest outburst. A club statement alluded to the spirit Ten Hag is creating and not wanting anything to divert them from their bid to get back to the top of the English game.

It read, “Our focus remains on preparing for the second half of the season and continuing the momentum, belief and togetherness being built among the players, manager, staff, and fans.”

If Ronaldo is released by United, there will be a few clubs considering signing him on a free transfer. His first club Sporting Lisbon are keen, while Chelsea owner Todd Boehly may reignite his interest from the summer. MLS clubs are also keeping tabs.

• The Sun report