AS says last month Ronaldo confessed to his Portugal teammates prior to their Euro2008 qualifier against Finland that "next season I will play for Real Madrid".

Ronaldo also told teammates that he had a buyout clause written into his present contract - "just over £45 million" - and believes the time is right for him to leave.

The winger is convinced with Nani's rapid progress, United will be prepared to let him move on and he could leave for £40 million.

Jorge Mendes, Ronaldo's agent, has a good relationship with Real sports director Pedja Mijatovic which would smooth any negotiations over personal terms.