Former Manchester United defender Gary Pallister believes that the Red Devils will be in the market for Real Madrid forward Cristiano Ronaldo this summer.

Rumours in recent months have emerged suggesting that the North West outfit are keen on bringing the Portugal captain back to Old Trafford.

While Pallister has insisted that a transfer would not be straightforward for United, he believes that Ferguson is eager to re-sign the player who left the Premier League in 2009 for a record £80m.

"I know for sure that Sir Alex would love to have Ronaldo back at Old Trafford," Pallister told Goal.com.

"To be honest, I didn't think it would be likely, especially this summer, but I'm coming round to it now.

"A lot depends on whether [coach] Jose Mourinho stays at Real, but, if not, Ronaldo could be tempted into a return."

United can go 18 points clear at the top of the Premier League table with a victory in tonight's Manchester derby.