Cristiano Ronaldo: Unlikely to be moving any time soon

Cristiano Ronaldo has an astronomical €1billion release clause in his Real Madrid contract, according to his agent Jorge Mendes.

Ronaldo's future has been the subject of recent speculation, with Sky Sports journalist Guillem Balague stating recently that "everything is in place" for the Portugal international to return to Manchester United.

The 29-year-old has enjoyed a stunning start to the season, with three hat-tricks and 13 goals in just six games for the European champions, but is has been suggested he is unhappy at the Bernabeu.

Chelsea have also been linked with the second-most expensive player of all time but manager Jose Mourinho was quick to shoot down the idea of a transfer, while Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger has also discussed the player.

But the most enduring speculation has come from Old Trafford, with Ronaldo's personal attachment to his former club putting Louis van Gaal's side in a strong position should he wish to leave.

However Mendes recently explained it would be "impossible to get him out of Madrid", and the 48-year-old has perhaps now revealed why.

Speaking to Spanish daily sports newspaper AS, Mendes said: "I no longer get calls from anyone asking about Cristiano. It's not worth them calling to ask for it.

"The price is that stated in his release clause – €1bn (£785m)."

Ronaldo scored 118 goals in 292 appearances from 2003 to 2009 under Sir Alex Ferguson, helping steer United to three Premier League titles and a Champions League amongst numerous other club and individual honours.

Cristiano Ronaldo: Has been in spectacular form

But it's Ronaldo's relationship with both former manager Ferguson and the club itself which adds fuel to the speculation, with Louis van Gaal also insisting that a deal to bring Ronaldo back is "possible".

The star himself has stated that he is happy in Madrid however, but Mendes admits that Ronaldo maintains a soft spot for the Red Devils.

"United are in his heart and he is very respectful of people who show him affection but he is in Madrid to the end."

Despite persistent injury troubles, Mendes also insists his client is in a "phenomenal" physical state, and has backed him to break his own records.

Guillem Balague believes Cristiano Ronaldo can score 80 goals this season if he continues the form he is in. Guillem Balague believes Cristiano Ronaldo can score 80 goals this season if he continues the form he is in.

"I'm sure that he will beat his personal record if he does not have any physical problems.

"For Cristiano, nothing is impossible. He is going to continue evolving and improving until he is 40. When he finishes it will be impossible for anyone to beat his records.

"Notice how Cristiano is a winger, he's not a striker, and his numbers are outrageous. He plays very far from goal and has to make significant efforts to arrive into the box. For that, he deserves even more credit for what he achieves.'

"'In addition to being the best footballer in history, he is the greatest athlete of all time."