The transfer of Cristiano Ronaldo to Manchester United is not a new story. For weeks now, the player has stated he is unsure about what the future holds for him after his contract with Real Madrid ends and his unhappiness with the club has also been reported.
On the other end, Manchester boss Sir Alex Ferguson has repeatedly stated an interest in bringing back his former star player.
According to ESPN, there is a real intent from both sides to make this happen. Reporter Miguel Delaney reports that "Cristiano Ronaldo no longer sees his long-term future at Real Madrid and has made it known to Manchester United that he favours an eventual return to Old Trafford."
The report adds that "The development, which has been revealed to ESPN by well-placed figures close to both clubs as well as the player, tallies with Ronaldo's recent public comments regarding his next move."
Ronaldo has recently stated that he will finish out his contract with Madrid but is unsure what happens in 2015 when he is a free agent once more. Manchester United would probably be unable to buy him out due to his high transfer costs (his rates could go as high as £122 million with an £810 million buy-out clause) but if he were to be a free agent, he could be affordable for the team.
Ronaldo and Manchester United are slated to face off this February in the Champions League Round of 16. Manchester United remains atop the Premier League while Real Madrid is 18 points back of first place in the Spanish League.