'I'd like to' – Former Super Eagles captain urges Chelsea to sign Ronaldo ahead of CWC

Former Super Eagles captain John Obi Mikel has called on his former club to make a bold move for Cristiano Ronaldo ahead of the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup (CWC), set to take place later this month.

Speaking in an interview with talkSPORT, the ex-UEFA Champions League winner said he would "like to" see Ronaldo don the Chelsea blue as the Blues gear up for the inaugural expanded Club World Cup tournament.

Mikel believes the Portuguese icon's presence would not only boost Chelsea's attack but also elevate the tournament's profile — especially if it means fans get to witness another showdown between Ronaldo and long-time rival Lionel Messi.

"I'd like to, obviously, but there's this ten-day transfer period just for the tournament for the clubs to get one or two players into their teams for the FIFA Club World Cup tournament," Mikel explained.

"I think it might be Al Hilal if he goes, so they're trying to make him get to the tournament which will be good, even for the fans,  and for all of us to see Ronaldo and Messi compete in another tournament."

Ronaldo's future has been the subject of intense speculation following the conclusion of the Saudi Pro League season.

The Al Nassr forward ended the campaign with an impressive 25 goals and 3 assists in 30 league appearances but posted a cryptic message after a 3-2 loss to Al Fateh – a result that left his side third and without silverware.

"This chapter is over. The story? Still being written. Grateful to all," Ronaldo posted on X, fueling rumours of an impending departure from Saudi Arabia. 

Adding to the uncertainty, he is yet to agree on a contract extension with Al Nassr.

For Mikel, Chelsea — who are in need of attacking reinforcements — would benefit greatly from the five-time Ballon d'Or winner's experience, even if only for the duration of the tournament.

"It's amazing. Ronaldo is an amazing player and top goalscorer, it'll be great to see him. Doing it at Chelsea? Yes. Of course, we need a number nine, and he's someone Delap can learn from, but everyone knows the number nine that I want us to get, but we're not getting him."

However, Mikel also reiterated his long-standing desire to see Chelsea pursue fellow Nigerian Victor Osimhen — a move he believes is unlikely given the club's current transfer direction.

"We need to get Osimhen, but I don't think the club is going that route. We've gotten Delap and I hope he performs and gives Nicolas Jackson some competition. Then we'll see how it leads us from the FIFA Club World Cup into the Premier League and the Champions League."

Adeyemi Adewale

Copyright ANS
All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from allnigeriasoccer.com