Manchester United want to sign Real Madrid star Cristiano Ronaldo for free
Ronaldo wants to leave Real Madrid for Manchester United having grown disillusioned with life in Spain.
The 32-year-old has endured a troublesome season, managing to score just four La Liga goals as Real have slipped well behind Barcelona in the race for the league title.
Reports say Ronaldo is eager to return to Old Trafford after Real president Florentino Perez refused to give him a new contract at the end of last season.
And the Daily Mail say Manchester United have held talks about signing Ronaldo from Real Madrid on a free.
However, it appears the Red Devils will not get their wish.
Ronaldo’s form on the pitch may be waning but, off it, he remains one of the biggest marketable tools in football.
Even though he has struggled for consistency this season, Real believe he is worth keeping for shirt sales alone.
As a result, the La Liga giants will make sure what, if Ronaldo leaves, they receive a huge transfer fee in return.
And the Daily Mail say United may have to face paying whatever Real want if they are to bring the player back to Old Trafford.
Meanwhile, Sky Sports’ Guillem Balague thinks the Red Devils may be put off a deal because of the finances that would be involved.
Steve Nicol says Cristiano Ronaldo has lost his sharpness
GETTY
Manchester United let Cristiano Ronaldo join Real Madrid back in 2009
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"Ronaldo's message is he wants to leave, and it appears Real Madrid will be willing to let him go,” he said.
“However, Real would love to see a fight between PSG and Man Utd, but the situation is more complicated than simply being interested in the player.
"To add to a net annual salary demand of around £44m, Real would also demand around £89m for Ronaldo, which is an almighty expense for a player who would arrive aged 33.
"Here's United's conundrum: the club cannot show a lack of interest if it is confirmed that Ronaldo is on the market.
“But the huge amount of money his transfer would demand cannot be justified."