The Portugal winger has been linked with Real Madrid throughout the summer, with the Spanish club maintaining their interest even though United repeatedly stressed Ronaldo would not be sold.

In an interview to be published in Portugal on Thursday, while repeating his previously stated desire to play for Real, Ronaldo has also confirmed he will stay with United for "at least another year."

"I will remain with Manchester United for at least another year," Ronaldo told Portuguese newspaper Publico.

He goes on to praise Sir Alex Ferguson, who flew to Portugal just after Euro 2008 for talks with Ronaldo.

Ferguson returned in bullish mood, claiming he had a frank exchange with Ronaldo, who would be staying at United.

While his stance was viewed as posturing in a battle that would be waged until the transfer window finally closed on August 31, the feeling in Manchester has been growing that Ronaldo has agreed to remain.

That belief was reinforced by Real's surprise announcement on Tuesday that the arrival of Rafael van der Vaart from Hamburg would represent their only major purchase of the summer.

Now Ronaldo has given United fans the news they were all hoping for.

Meanwhile United continued their pre-season preparations with a goalless draw with Italian giants Juventus at Old Trafford.