Will Nike Push Cristiano Ronaldo to Inter?

Today's latest wild rumor, reported from numerous sources, is that Nike may be involved in machinations to push Manchester United star Cristiano Ronaldo to sign with Inter Milan, as soon as next summer. 

Reports from goal.com, Il Corriere Del Sport, soccerlens, yahoo! and other outlets suggest that Nike, which sponsors Inter, wants to pair Ronaldo with Zlatan Ibrahimovic, who already has his own a Nike deal.  Reportedly, both Nike and Inter's main sponsor, Pirelli, are preparing to set aside funds to help acquire the player.

Of course, considering that Ronaldo is already playing for Nike-sponsored Manchester United last summer fended off bids reported to be as high as €90 million from Real Madrid (sponsored by Adidas), it is questionable whether the move will make financial sense for Nike -- even if Manchester United could be persuaded to sell. 

And with Man Utd already ahead of Inter in terms of shirt sales and global popularity, the only way such a move even starts to make sense for Nike is to ensure that Ronaldo stays with a Nike-sponsored club, such as Inter or Barcelona, instead of moving to a club sponsored by a rival, as it appeared he might last summer.

Comments

[Bestplayerintheworld.com]

Can't see Ronaldo leaving United. This is not a David Beckham situation: Ronaldo is a much better, more important player. I guess you never say never in the world of sports marketing though. How about Ibra joining Ronaldo at United instead?

[Thomas Kerner]

While I think both scenarios are very unlikely, I think we'd be more likely to see Ibra move to Man U before we see CRon moving to Inter. Based on what Man Utd has already turned down, it is doubtful that Inter would have the funds to make a deal like this happen, even with Nike's input.

Your point about sports marketing, though, is well taken -- my guess is this whole story was cooked up to get Nike and CRon a little more free publicity -- as if they need any!