Van Gaal: "Real Madrid will not sell Cristiano Ronaldo"

Louis Van Gaal during press conference

Manchester United coach Louis Van Gaal spoke at a press conference about a possible return of Cristiano Ronaldo at Old Trafford. Although the Dutch is supportive of this assumption, but believes that Real Madrid will not let the Portuguese go.

"I would say the same as I said about Falcao. Players like Ronaldo bring extra quality to the team, but I think that Real Madrid would not sell Cristiano", said Van Gaal.

"It’s a discussion that is always in the papers," he concluded in relation to Cristiano Ronaldo. In recent weeks, the British press have reported that Manchester United will make an offer of 70 million for the player next summer and would offer a contract for 18 million per year to Ronaldo.

According to reports in Spain, the relationship between Ronaldo's agent Jorge Mendes and Real Madrid President Florentino Perez have worsened after Perez turned down the chance to sign Falcao on deadline day. Making Ronaldo leave Real Madrid would be the best way to make it even.

Van Gaal also stated that no striker has a guaranteed position in the starting lineup and that Falcao and Van Persie will have to fight for their place every week.

Van Gaal also surprised the journalists present at the press conference by saying that Rooney is the only striker who owns a place in the starting lineup.

"Falcao is a very good striker and Van Persie too. We also have Rooney, Januzaj and Wilson. Five players for two positions, and I have to choose, "he added.