Andrea Pirlo expects Cristiano Ronaldo to stay at Juventus

Juventus boss Andrea Pirlo has said that he expects Cristiano Ronaldo to stay at the club beyond this summer, despite fresh links with a return to Manchester United.

Five-time Ballon d'Or winner Ronaldo has been touted as a target for United, where he previously spent six trophy-laden campaigns.

The speculation comes amid rumours that Juve may look to cash in on the Portugal international as he is about to enter the final 12 months of his contract.

However, speaking ahead of the Bianconeri's 4-1 win at Bologna on the final day of the Serie A season, Pirlo moved to play down the speculation.

"I see him still in the 'Bianconero' jersey and focused," Pirlo told reporters.

"He proved it the other night, sacrificing himself because he wanted to win the Coppa Italia. I see him focused on the next game, then there's time to discuss the rest."

Ronaldo scored 29 goals in his third Serie A campaign with Juventus, who finished fourth and qualified for the Champions League thanks to a strong finish to the season.