Cristiano Ronaldo has denied claims that he regularly uses an offensive nickname to describe Barcelona forward Lionel Messi.

Reports emerged yesterday suggesting that the Portugal international refers to his rival as a 'motherfucker', while also using that term against any of his teammates caught talking to Messi.

Ronaldo has angrily denied these rumours, however, saying that he will now take further action after labelling them as being "absolutely false".

"News is circulating that I allegedly made offending remarks regarding Lionel Messi," he said on Facebook. "This is absolutely false and I have assured my lawyer takes action to sue those responsible.

"I have the utmost respect for all my professional colleagues, and Messi is obviously no exception."

Ronaldo and Messi are expected to come up against each other next week when Portugal take on Argentina at Old Trafford.