Real Madrid star Cristiano Ronaldo has intervened in Sporting CP winger Gelson Martins' transfer plans.

Gelson is being linked with Barcelona, while he is also the subject of major interest from Liverpool and Manchester United.

And Ronaldo has stepped in to offer his advice to his Portugal teammate.

Don Balon says Ronaldo has told Gelson to forget about moving to Barca, where he would be in the shadow of Lionel Messi. Instead, he's urged Gelson to go to England, specifically former club Manchester United.

Ronaldo has assured Gelson he would thrive under Jose Mourinho at United and his Portuguese dominated coaching staff.

The midfielder's contract carries a €65 million buyout clause, though Sporting are prepared to sell for €40 million.