Calderon claims they will not make a move until they are given encouragement by the Red Devils - although that appears to be at odds with their coach's thinking.

"We will not make a move until the team (Manchester United) says they want to sell the player," said the 57-year-old. "Right now they are saying the contrary and there's little we can do."

Madrid's public courting of the Portugal winger has outraged United, who have already lodged a complaint with FIFA over what they perceive are attempts to unsettle the 23-year-old.

Ronaldo's United contract runs until 2012 and the club are anxious to dissuade any possible suitors.

On Friday they released a statement insisting they are not interested in listening to offers for Ronaldo.

However, Schuster is unconcerned by that and has made his feelings pretty clear - even if it costs the club a reported £80million transfer fee.

"For a player of his kind of level, we must pay what is necessary," he told German television channel DSF.

"Because, for us what is most important is to win the Champions League and he can help us achieve that."