Real Madrid star Cristiano Ronaldo has admitted to having spoken to Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson, but claimed that an Old Trafford return was not discussed.

The Portuguese winger sparked speculation of a Premier League return earlier this season by admitting to feeling unsettled in Madrid.

However, the rumours of a Bernabeu exit have disappeared of late and he appears to enjoying his football once more.

Ronaldo confessed that he had spoken to Fergie ahead of Real’s recent Champions League tie with Manchester City:

"I met Alex Ferguson on the day of the game, he came to our hotel in Manchester to speak with Jose Mourinho.” He is quoted by SkySports.

"Of course I talked to him as well. We keep in touch. It was nice to see him again."

But he maintained that a return to England was not on the agenda:

"No. We didn't speak about that.

"We just talked about his times with Manchester United and mine with Real Madrid. We were just happy to see each other."

He also backed his former club to regain their Premier League title this season:

"There are three or four teams who can perhaps win the league, which is why it is the most competitive anywhere in the world.

"It will be tough for every team but I think United will do it this year and win their title back.

"It won't be easy and it will be very close, but United are stronger in attack this season and that could be the difference."