Bayern reveal United did make Ribery approach in search for Ronaldo replacement

Published: 27 May 2009 - 14:24:07

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Bayern reveal United did make Ribery approach in search for Ronaldo replacement

Manchester United have made an enquiry about Bayern Munich playmaker Franck Ribery. Uli Hoeness, the Bayern general manager, confirmed that United had made what he called a 'non-concrete enquiry' about the France international. Ribery, also wanted by Barcerlona and Real Madrid, has two years left to run on his current Bayern contract and United will have to break the British transfer record to sign him. 'I would really not even answer the phone if the amount would just be £34million,' said Hoeness. 'There was a casual request from Manchester United but then it depends on Cristiano Ronaldo.' Reports in Spain suggest Madrid appear to be the favourites to sign Ribery, who would be a cheaper alternative to Manchester United winger Ronaldo for the Spanish giants. It is likely to cost about £75million to lure Ronaldo from Old Trafford, while Ribery could be available for closer to £45m. The France star would prefer to sign for Barcelona, but Madrid seem the more determined Spanish side for his signature. Hoeness added: 'I hear about offer of 40 and 50million for Ribery, but these figures are not put to me on the phone.' Asked about reports that Ribery's wife was house-hunting in Madrid, he said: 'She can buy a house if she wants, but he knows that we aren't going to make it easy for him to leave here.' Manchester City and Chelsea have also been linked with the 26-year-old.