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Man Utd transfer news: Cristiano Ronaldo encouraged to leave Real Madrid by Barcelona star
IVAN RAKITIC has encouraged Cristiano Ronaldo to leave Real Madrid amid rumours of a move to Manchester United.
Real Madrid are planning a mass shake-up this summer following the sacking of manager Zinedine Zidane.
Los Blancos finished third in the La Liga table and are widely expected to move on a number of big-earners.
Ronaldo have been linked with a possible move back to Old Trafford by the Spanish press, with the speculation stepping up in recent weeks.
And Barcelona midfielder Rakitic says he would welcome Ronaldo leaving the Bernabeu - although he deems it ‘unlikely’ to happen.
I find it hard to believe that he'd go
"I find it hard to believe that he'd go," Rakitic told Marca.
"But, things change quickly in football… and if he does, I'm not going to lie, I'd be happy!"
Former Real boss Zidane left his position just five days after winning the Champions League in May.
And Rakitic says he was not surprised to see him walk away after lifting the top European honour for a third time.
"At first, it didn't surprise me," he added.
"But he's chosen his time [to step down] and you've got to take your hat off to him.
"The level he's taken Madrid to is very impressive, something that few would have managed."
Rakitic is currently with his international side Croatia as he gears up for the World Cup.