Barcelona boss Frank Rijkaard has described Cristiano Ronaldo as
a 'great player', but insists that any talk of a move to Spain for
the Manchester United star is pure speculation at present.
The Portuguese international has been in the form of his life this
season and looks to be in pole position to claim all the individual
end of season awards as well as his first Premiership title with
United.
However, whispers of a summer move to Spain have resurfaced with a
vengeance in recent weeks and the exuberant winger has reportedly
been instructed by Sir Alex Ferguson not to talk about Real Madrid
in public.
Los Merengues attempted to prise Ronaldo from Old Trafford
following the World Cup, whilst rivals Barcelona have also been
strongly linked with the former Sporting starlet in recent
days.
Ronaldo's agent has refused to rule out a move to the Primera Liga
come the summer and now Barca boss Rijkaard has conceded he is a
huge fan of the Red Devils star.
However, the Dutchman has played down talk that Los Cules could be
ready to make a move for the 13-goal winger.
"Without a doubt, he is one of the most valuable players in world
football," Rijkaard told Sport.
"But there are only rumours at the moment, there is nothing
concrete.
"I must say that yes, he is a great player, but we cannot do
anything else at this moment.
"It is still too soon to comment on future signings.
"We still have many games to play and this group has much to
demonstrate."