Manchester United said they will not listen to any offers for Portuguese winger Cristiano Ronaldo, putting an end to rumors linking the player to Real Madrid. "Manchester United has noted the increasing media speculation over the future of Cristiano Ronaldo," read a statement on the Manchester United website on Wednesday. "The Club can confirm there is no possibility of Cristiano being sold." It has been heavily rumored the Portuguese forward would leave Old Trafford before the start of the season after the controversy regarding unpopular his actions during the World Cup. Ronaldo has become an unpopular figure in the British Isles after supposedly playing a role in the sending-off of United teammate Wayne Rooney during the game between England and Portugal.
The young star has said he desires a move to Spain, with Real Madrid being his preferred destination, but there have also been rumors of interest from Barcelona. Newly-elected Real president Ramon Calderon has said he would be prepared to back a bid for Ronaldo, who cost Manchester United £12 million ($15 million) three years ago. But The Red Devils claimed the former Sporting Lisbon player is not for sale, and have recently extended his contract another four years. "Ronaldo is one of the brightest young stars in world football as demonstrated by his performances at the World Cup and Manchester United is not in the business of selling their best young players," read the statement. "He recently signed a new contract until 2010 and the Club fully expects him to honor that contract."
