Chelsea linked with surprise bid for Real Madrid's Cristiano Ronaldo

Chelsea have been linked with a shock summer bid for Real Madrid star Cristiano Ronaldo.

The Blues are preparing to do battle with Manchester United for the £60m-rated forward, who has been tipped to leave Spain at the end of the season, The Express reports.

Ronaldo's former club United are believed to be the frontrunners for his signature, but Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho is understood to have a close relationship with the Portugal international from their time together at Real.

Red Devils manager Louis Van Gaal is said to have funds set aside to bankroll the transfer next summer, and is apparently willing to exceed the player's current £290,000 weekly wage.

Ronaldo scored 84 goals in 196 appearances for United between 2003 and 2009.