In Spain, reports are flying about that apparently, a “major rift” has developed between the winger and manager Jose Mourinho following a blazing row on the training ground, forcing Real president Florentino Perez to consider selling him to the only other club who could afford him, Manchester City.
Manchester City have denied the reports as “mischief making”, yet highly-respected Spanish football journalist Guillem Balague insists that the source for this story is impeccable as he giggled behind the bike-sheds. “The Ronaldo thing is true,” he told Sky Sports News, confirming that negotiations are taking place – though remaining sceptical of the idea that the player would end up leaving.
Negotiations without leaving? Smells a bit similar to the Rooney speculation which nearly brough Sir Alex to tears (and prompting a classic rant from Ian Holloway) Ronaldo is meant to be demanding a five-year contract worth £300,000-a-week.
This story, of course, will no doubt spill plenty more newspaper ink linking in with with the Tevez situation.