United cool Ronaldo exit talk
27 Jun 2006 - 13:01:18
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- United cool Ronaldo exit talk
Manchester United have cooled rumours suggesting Cristiano Ronaldo is on the verge of moving to Real Madrid this summer.
A report in the Spanish newspaper Marca quoted the 21-year-old as saying he was keen to link-up with Real Madrid but United insist Ronaldo is still their player.
"He is our player and has signed a long-term contract until 2010. We will not be drawn further on this matter," said a statement on United's official website.
Ronaldo said he would be willing to leave Sir Alex Ferguson's side if Juan Miguel Villar Mir becomes the Spanish's side's new president this weekend.
Real's presidential election takes place on July 2 and Villar Mir is believed to be the favourite to win.
"I have told my agent I am prepared to leave. I want to do it in the best manner possible. I want to play for Real Madrid and dream of doing so," Ronaldo was quoted as saying.
"I have gone with Villar Mir's project because it is serious and follows correct procedures. They have explained to me their plans and the next step is they will talk to Manchester United to open negotiations.
"Other candidates wanted me to sign a document which is not legal. Villar Mir has promised me he will talk to the club and all we have done is talk through an agent."
Ronaldo has scored 18 goals in 95 Premiership appearances for United since his £12million transfer from Sp Lisbon.