Cristiano's Newcastle Clause Finally Addressed by Eddie Howe

• Cristiano Ronaldo was formally announced as an Al-Nassr player on January 3
• There were reports suggesting he could move back to the Premier League on loan
• One club manager quashed the rumours by denying there was a clause in the deal

Newcastle manager Eddie Howe has spoken up for the first time, on the alleged clause that might enable Cristiano Ronaldo to join the club on loan.

Ronaldo, now an Al-Nassr player, was officially unveiled by the club on Tuesday, January 3 in a grand ceremony in front of tens of thousands of fans.

While the 37-year-old is now likely to end his career in the Middle East, Spanish outlet Marca came out with interesting reports suggesting Ronaldo could return to the Premier League.

The report claimed the veteran would be allowed to join Newcastle on loan from Al-Nassr, should the Magpies qualify for the Champions League next season.

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Addressing the rumours, the Magpies' boss Howe denied there being any clause allowing Ronaldo to join his high-flying boys.

“We wish Cristiano the best in his new venture, but there’s no truth to that from our perspective,” he told Sky Sports, per Express Sport.

Newcastle United was bought by Saudi Arabian investment fund PIF a year ago, hence the links to Ronaldo's club Al-Nassr.

Ronaldo's time in Europe over

Speaking during his unveiling, Ronaldo also seemed to suggest he would not play in Europe again, as he said he had 'achieved everything' and his work on the continent was done.

“I played at the most important clubs and for me, now it is a new challenge in Asia. So far feeling very good, I'm so proud to make this big decision in my life,” the Portugal international said.

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Previously, the superstar was linked to several European clubs after his contract with Manchester United was ripped up prematurely.

Some of the clubs linked with his services included Chelsea, Bayern Munich and Atletico Madrid, but they all eventually backed out of potential negotiations.

Ronaldo receives hearty Al-Nassr reception

Sports Brief also earlier reported on the grand reception Ronaldo received after being unveiled by new club Al-Nassr.

The former Manchester superstar was introduced as ‘the world’s greatest footballer’ in front of 25,000 raucous supporters in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

As the 37-year-old made his way onto the field, fans at the stadium chanted his name as flares, fireworks and strobe lighting were lit to welcome their new star.