Ferguson dismisses Ronaldo fears

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson has dismissed speculation that Cristiano Roanldo could leave.
Real Madrid and Barcelona are said to be preparing bids amid reports that contract negotiations with the Portugal international have stalled.

Ronaldo, 20, is in talks to extend his current contract which ends in 2008.

Ferguson told A Bola sports daily: "There's no chance of him leaving, he's three years left on his contract and he's sure to sign a new one."

Ferguson's dismissal comes after Ronaldo's agent warned that the winger's future at Manchester United will be in doubt if the club does not pay him top-class wages.

Jorge Mendes said: "It is important to recognise that Cristiano Ronaldo is now a world star.

"If the club says he's a symbol of the future and an idol for the fans then they have to pay him accordingly."

Ronaldo joined United from Sporting Lisbon in in a £12.6m deal in August 2003.

He has proved to be a success, but Mendes is adamant he deserves a better deal.

United claim they have a letter of intent from Ronaldo's camp, committing him to a five-year deal.

But that contract remains unsigned and, as Malcolm Glazer finally took full control of United on Tuesday, Ferguson will be telling his new bosses the club must keep Ronaldo.

Mendes oversaw the transfer of Deco to Barcelona last season, and also negotiated the signing of the Spanish champions' Mexican defender Rafael Marquez.