If reports that the 23-year-old will undergo surgery next week
to cure a long-standing ankle problem are correct, Ronaldo looks
sure to miss the first few weeks of the new season.
He has been subject of a prolonged tug-of-war, at least in the
media, between Manchester United and Real Madrid, who are
reportedly willing to pay a world record transfer fee to take him
to the Bernabeu.
The Spanish champions have been publicly courting the winger, who
scored 42 goals for United last season, despite United's insistence
that he is not for sale.
However, since Portugal's involvement in Euro 2008 ended, the
intensity of Real's unsettling campaign appears to have lessened,
suggesting that Ronaldo will be staying at Old Trafford, as United
have said he would all along.
The English and European champions seem more concerned with the
player's fitness than any transfer rumours, especially with reports
now suggesting he will go under the knife to clear up his ankle
injury once and for all.
Surgery is expected next week, and would force Ronaldo to miss
United's pre-season preparations - and to go through a six-week
rehabilitation period.
On Thursday, United's medical staff met Ronaldo and representatives
from the Portugal national side to discuss the player's
injury.
The problem affected Ronaldo's performances during Euro 2008.
A statement from his club said: "Manchester United's medical staff
met with the medical team from the Portuguese FA and Cristiano
Ronaldo in Lisbon regarding the ongoing treatment of his injured
right ankle.
"As a result, further specialist advice is being sought and an
announcement will be made on any action in due course."
A United source has also described a mooted £70million transfer of
Ronaldo to Real Madrid as "utter nonsense and totally
laughable."