Real Madrid Reportedly Open to Cristiano Ronaldo Exit but Could Struggle to Sell

Real Madrid are reportedly open to the idea of selling Cristiano Ronaldo in the summer but may struggle to do so as the cost of his transfer could prove prohibitive for any potential suitors, even the likes of Manchester United. 

According to Sky Sports' Guillem Balague:

"Ronaldo's message is he wants to leave, and it appears Real Madrid will be willing to let him go. However, Real would love to see a fight between Paris Saint-Germain and Man United, but the situation is more complicated than simply being interested in the player.

"To add to a net annual salary demand of around £44 million, Real would also demand around £89 million for Ronaldo, which is an almighty expense for a player who would arrive aged 33.

"Here's United's conundrum: The club cannot show a lack of interest if it is confirmed that Ronaldo is on the market. But the huge amount of money his transfer would demand cannot be justified."

Ronaldo has been repeatedly linked with a sensational return to Old Trafford, and Sky Sports' Kaveh Solhekol relayed the latest speculation:

However, the prospect of him moving clubs has become increasingly unlikely in recent years because of his age. As Balague noted, the Portugal international will be 33 in February.

There are a number of factors at play, and Ronaldo has been prolific in the UEFA Champions League this season, but the fact he has found the net only four times in La Liga is perhaps an indication he is beginning to decline.

As such, it would be something of a surprise even if Paris Saint-Germain were to pursue him, and they're perhaps the only other club in Europe capable of paying the money required.

Meanwhile, a move outside Europe would call an end to Ronaldo's time at the top level—something he'll be eager to delay as long as possible, particularly after winning back-to-back Ballons d'Or—and money would also be an issue, given the Chinese Super League now imposes a 100 per cent levy on foreign transfers.

Aside from the enormous cost issue, there may also be little room for Ronaldo in United's plans, per Bleacher Report's Dean Jones:

Given Ronaldo's age and the cost of keeping him, it's not surprising Real are open to moving him on as they look to rejuvenate their side, but even if they're willing to lower their demands, the forward is unlikely to lower his.

A sensational return to United or a move to Paris doesn't appear to be on the horizon.