Rio - Ronaldo must stay

United defender wants team to stay together

Last updated: 6th June 2008

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Ronaldo: Keen on Real move

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Rio Ferdinand has urged Cristiano Ronaldo to stay at Manchester United after the winger expressed a wish to play for Real Madrid.

Ronaldo is the Spanish champions' top summer transfer target, but Real's pursuit of the Portugal international has angered United.

The Premier League giants have threatened to report Real to Fifa following the public nature of the Spanish club's interest.

But, on Thursday, Ronaldo revealed that he is keen to join Real, providing president Ramon Calderon is willing to meet United's demands.

United are sticking to their stance that the 23-year-old is not for sale and stand-in captain Ferdinand also hopes his team-mate stays at Old Trafford.

Want to build

Following last season's triumphs in the Premier League and UEFA Champions League, Ferdinand feels it is vital that the Red Devils squad remains intact.

"This team can get better, but we need it to stay together," Ferdinand told The Sun.

"We have worked hard to get to the position we are in and want to build on the success we have had.

"That means keeping all the players at the club."