That’s according to the Manchester Evening News, who say senior sources described the speculation as ‘Sky Sports’ quiet week-saver’.
Ronaldo has established a reputation as one of the world’s best players ever since swapping Old Trafford for the Bernabeu in 2009.
A return to Manchester looked like a distinct possibility this summer though when it emerged the 32-year-old was annoyed about being investigated by the Spanish tax authorities.
Ronaldo of course remained at Real with United’s incomings limited to Romelu Lukaku, Nemanja Matic and Victor Lindelof.
The Manchester Evening News have now shed some light on the Red Devils’ supposed interest in bringing the Portugal captain back to England.
They say senior sources dismissed the rumours, started up again by The Sunday Times this weekend, as ‘Sky Sports’ quiet week-saver’.
That’s apparently a reference to claims other outlets have made which have not been borne out.
The Manchester Evening News say that the two big-name players United did consider moves for were Antoine Griezmann, of Atletico Madrid, and Ronaldo’s Real team-mate Gareth Bale.
They explain Jose Mourinho did not rule out a move for Ronaldo though because he shares his agent, Jorge Mendes, with the forward.
One of the Manchester Evening News’ sources added that "whenever Ronaldo is upset he starts talking about United" - which happened once again this year.
