Cristiano Ronaldo has spoken out to Terra and apparently dropped the bombshell to Manchester United: he wants to play for Real Madrid, and seems to have urged the Spaniards to make a bid.

Speaking to the Brazilian website, Ronaldo apparently stopped hinting and explicitly stated his plans for the future.

"Yes, I would like to play for Real Madrid," he allegedly said to Terra.com.br.

"That's the truth, depending on what they are willing to spend on me and what Manchester United ask. But that's not up to me."

Apparently speaking in calm, measured tones to interviewer Julio Gomes Filho, Ronaldo said his piece and then closed the subject for the time being.

"I think I've put across an important message," he said.

"As of today, I will speak no more about this with absolutely anyone. I'll only talk about it after the Euros.

"Nobody is to ask me anymore, as I will not answer."
 

These utterances, made in the tranquil surroundings of Portugal's Euro 2008 training base in Neuchatel, will rock Manchester United's summer plans significantly.

The Old Trafford side, who have slammed Real Madrid and the Spanish capital press for unsettling Ronaldo, have stated in no uncertain terms that they will do their utmost to hold onto their prize asset.

Madrid, meanwhile, had previously pledged to break the bank for the goalscoring winger, although recent declarations about the difficult of signing Ronaldo have thrown such bravado into question. €80m could be the absolute bare minimum required.

However, one must ask exactly in what context the Golden Shoe winner spoke, and whether or not he was definitely speaking about this present transfer window. Indeed, some pundits have already questioned the veracity of the interview.

Steve Michaels, Goal.com

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