Manchester United Football Club News

• Nickname:Red Devils
• Founded:1878
• Manager:Sir Alex Ferguson

• Ground:Old Trafford
• Capacity:68,174

Real finally end Ron interest

24 Oct 2008 - 14:42:39

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Real Madrid president Ramon Calderon has drawn a line under his club's protracted pursuit of Cristiano Ronaldo after claiming their interest in the Manchester United star is over.

The Portugal international was at the centre of a tug-of-war between the two clubs during the summer after suggesting he was keen to join the Spanish champions.

United reported Real to FIFA over their public pursuit of the 23-year-old wideman and ultimately persuaded him to remain at Old Trafford.

Red Devils boss Sir Alex Ferguson has since suggested that Real will attempt to renew their interest next summer, but Calderon claims his club now has no plans to sign the favourite to be named the recipient of this year's Ballon d'Or and world player of the year accolades.

"It is not possible," he said when asked about a potential deal. "That matter is over.

"We talked about that last season. Manchester decided they did not want to sell the player and we don't want to do anything against a friendly club like Manchester.

"We accept that Ronaldo decided to stay at Manchester. It is forgotten. Not only for January but, I think, for ever."

However, Calderon did admit that his club would be interested should United ever consider selling Ronaldo.

"Only if Manchester decided to sell will we be talking about it," he told Sky Sports News.

"But I would like to say clearly that Madrid is not doing anything to disturb a nice and friendly club like Manchester.

"That is the final word and we are happy."