Former Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson will reportedly use his close relationship with Cristiano Ronaldo to help convince the Real Madrid star to return to Old Trafford.

Ronaldo's future is constantly discussed, with United and Paris Saint-Germain thought to be the main contenders for his signature.

The Portugal captain's camp have consistently denied the rumours, claiming that the 30-year-old will end his career at the Bernabeu.

However, according to Marca, United are refusing to give up and they have enlisted the help of Ferguson, who is said to have held talks with Ronaldo in November about a possible return to the Premier League.

It is also believed that the retired Scottish boss is working closely with United's owners to push through a transfer.

Ronaldo, who was signed by Ferguson in 2003, spent six years at Old Trafford before sealing a then-world record £80m move to Real Madrid.