Reports in Spain suggest the Red Devils' American owners are currently working under the assumption the Portuguese winger will be heading to Real Madrid this summer.

The reports go on to claim that the Glazers, after many meetings with United chief executive David Gill, realise that Ronaldo's departure is inevitable, and must prepare for negotiations with Real over what is sure to be a world record transfer fee.

Ronaldo's agent Jorge Mendes has reportedly told United that his client wants to make the move, and although definite negotiations have not yet started, a transfer is being viewed as an inevitability.

It is thought that a bid of around 70-75 million Euros (just under 60million pounds) will be enough to persuade United to sell their prize asset.

Ronaldo is currently on holiday following Euro 2008, and is set to undergo surgery on an ankle injury in the next few days.