Cristiano Ronaldo has confessed to friends he wants to return to Manchester United. The Sunday Express says the Portuguese winger - who celebrates his 27th birthday today - has told close friends that his 'dream' move to Real Madrid has become tarnished.

Earlier in the season, Ronaldo was jeered by some home fans who questioned his attitude.

Although relations between the player and supporters have improved as Real close in on the Spanish title, it has still left Ronaldo restless.

The star - who joined Real from Manchester United in an £80million world record transfer in June 2009 - has confided to family and friends that he misses Old Trafford and in particular his former manager Sir Alex Ferguson, who he regarded as a father figure and mentor.

After almost three years in Spain, the lure of a return to the Premier League is growing stronger - and that news will place a number of top English clubs on alert, including Manchester City and Chelsea. But the special relationship with United could prove crucial if Real Madrid agree to sell.