Key Takeaways:
- Manchester United have lodged a formal offer to acquire Sergio Ramos on a free transfer following his departure from Monterrey after their Liga MX play-off semi-final loss to Toluca on 7 December
- Ramos, aged 39, scored seven goals in 32 appearances for Monterrey and is reportedly seeking a return to European football, with United emerging as early frontrunners in ongoing negotiations
- The Spanish defender previously came close to joining United in 2015 and turned down a second approach in 2023 before opting for a sentimental return to Sevilla
Manchester United Seek Defensive Reinforcement in Ramos After Mexican Spell
Manchester United have reportedly submitted a proposal to bring Sergio Ramos to Old Trafford without a transfer fee, following the veteran defender’s recent departure from Mexican side Monterrey. Ramos, aged 39, made his final bow for Monterrey in their Liga MX play-off semi-final defeat to Toluca on 7 December, an exit that has seen speculation mount regarding his next move. Sources indicate the iconic Spaniard is targeting a return to Europe for a final chapter in his illustrious career.
🚨🚨🌖| BREAKING: Manchester United have formally put forward an offer to bring Sergio Ramos to Old Trafford in the January window. [@La_SER via @goal] pic.twitter.com/QpOlL4izk2
— centredevils. (@centredevils) December 10, 2025
Despite being firmly in the latter stages of his playing days, Ramos proved his enduring class during his stint in Mexico. Joining Monterrey in February 2025, he contributed an impressive seven goals from 32 outings at centre-back, remaining the defensive lynchpin his reputation was built upon at Real Madrid. Following Monterrey’s elimination from the play-offs, Ramos confirmed with certainty that it marked his last appearance for the club.
Negotiations Continue Amid Revival of Longstanding Interest
According to a report carried by Cadena SER and Fichajes, the World Cup winner is placing priority on a return to European competition, hungry for one concluding challenge before retirement. Manchester United, alert to his availability and proven pedigree, have moved swiftly and are currently considered the leading contenders to secure his signature. However, talks remain at an early stage and, as reported, nothing has been “finalised”.
This interest is not new: the Premier League side have pursued Ramos before. In 2015, United advanced talks and submitted a £28.6 million bid, as detailed by Sky Sports, only for Ramos to renew with Real Madrid after prolonged consideration. In 2023, United returned with an offer worth approximately £73,000 per week, but the proposal was promptly declined, to the surprise of club officials, according to reports by The Sun.
Return to Sevilla and Enduring Football Legacy
Prior to his Mexican venture, Ramos elected to rejoin his boyhood club Sevilla, spurning United’s advances for a second time. That move, which saw the veteran accept a reduced salary, was framed by Ramos as a personal and familial duty, as well as a tribute to the memory of former Sevilla teammate Antonio Puerta, who passed away in 2007.
With 180 caps, Ramos stands as Spain’s most capped footballer, having captained his nation to World Cup glory in 2010 and back-to-back European Championship triumphs. Across nearly two decades at Real Madrid, he amassed five La Liga trophies and four Champions League winners’ medals. The central defender’s legacy is highlighted by his record of crucial goals, characteristic resilience, and relentless spirit, but the key question remains: can Ramos meet the physical demands of English football at this advanced stage of his career?
