Man United reports Real Madrid to FIFA over pursuit of Ronaldo

Source: Agencies  |   2008-6-10  |     ONLINE EDITION

MANCHESTER United has lodged an official complaint with FIFA over Real Madrid's persistent attempts to lure Cristiano Ronaldo away from the English and European club champion.

United said yesterday it had no alternative after claiming the Spanish champion has continually pursued the Portugal winger, who has just under four years remaining on his contract.

The protest followed Real Madrid president Ramon Calderon's comments about his "pride" and "honor" that Ronaldo wants to play for his club.

United management hopes to silence its Spanish rival with the official request, but fears the issue won't be resolved until Sept. 1 -- when the European transfer period closes.

It is believed that neither Ronaldo nor his advisers were made aware of the complaint, which FIFA only confirmed it has received and would investigate.

The 23-year-old Ronaldo, who scored 42 goals in helping the Reds to the English and European titles, has done little to quash speculation while at the European Championship with Portugal and in recent weeks has repeatedly spoken of his desire to play at the Santiago Bernabeu.

To acquire Ronaldo, Madrid likely would have to surpass the record transfer fee of US$80.9 million it paid to get former France striker Zinedine Zidane from Juventus.

United announced its complaint in a statement on its Web site.

"On 27 May, Manchester United made clear its intention to report Real Madrid to FIFA if it continued to involve itself in the future of Cristiano Ronaldo," United said Monday.

"Unfortunately, Real Madrid has not kept its own counsel and the club feels it has no alternative but to make a formal complaint to the world governing body, which it has done today.

"The precise content and nature will remain confidential."

United coach Alex Ferguson has been infuriated by what he considers Madrid's heavy handed tactics in trying to attract Ronaldo.