Reds laugh off Ronny rumours

Sir Alex Ferguson has labelled the latest bout of claims that Real Madrid are set to snatch Cristiano Ronaldo from Old Trafford as "nonsense".

The 22-year-old winger has once again proved he is among the world's elite players with some scintillating performances and 19 goals this term.

Speculation in Spain's press has suggested the La Liga giants are ready to move for Ronaldo, a rumour Sir Alex has become accustomed to.

"I anticipated this," Sir Alex said somewhat wearily. "In the New Year you almost expect it.

"The thing about this story is that it has been claimed that David Gill has been speaking to Real Madrid. That is a complete lie. We have never spoken to them. The story depends on agents and their imaginations.

"At best it's mischievous, but I just dismiss it because it's nonsense. But who wouldn’t be interested in Ronaldo? That’s why we bought him."

Sir Alex again all but ruled out any moves in the January transfer market. Other than potential loan deals for some of the Reds' younger players, it should be a quiet month on the transfer front. "It's unlikely we will be making any moves," he added.