Ferguson said: "With Ronaldo having scored 25 goals already there is the potential for him to score 30 this season, without question. He's not that far off and has a strong chance.

"I'm not sure that he is capable of scoring 30 league goals, though. I think that is a different matter entirely.

"Achieving that would be more difficult and it's a big ask - but if he does manage it, I'll pay him more money!"

Ferguson is not putting any of his own cash on the table after losing last season's bet that Ronaldo would not get 20 goals in all competitions.

The United chief added: "I had a bet with him last season and I lost, so there was no bet this time around. I'm making sure I keep my money.

"When this season started, people were asking whether Ronaldo could get 23 goals as he did last season. I said 'why not?' because the boy is such an exceptional talent."