Ronaldo 1-3 to stay with United

Cristiano Ronaldo is 1-3 with Ladbrokes to be playing for Manchester United and, if you believe Sir Alex Ferguson, that could be license to print money.

Ferguson said at a press conference in South Africa today (Friday) that Ronaldo would definitely be a United player when the new campaign begins next month.

The United manager, with the squad on their pre-season tour of South Africa, said he had held talks with the Portuguese winger in Lisbon on Monday after weeks of speculation about a possible transfer to Real Madrid.

“The meeting went well,” Ferguson said. “I can say he’ll be a Manchester United player next season. That’s our stance. He won’t be sold.”

Despite Ferguson’s pledge, Ladbrokes go 1-3 about Ronaldo staying with United. They offer 11-5 against him switching to Madrid.

Nick Weinberg, of Ladbrokes, said: “Ronaldo looks likely to stay at Manchester United. But, despite Sir Alex Ferguson’s tough words, a big bid from the Bernabeu could test both the club and player's resolve.”