Louis van Gaal 'hoping' for Cristiano Ronaldo deal

Manchester United boss Louis van Gaal has admitted that he 'hopes' to strike a deal to bring the legendary Cristiano Ronaldo back to Old Trafford in the summer.

The Portuguese, 30, is reportedly plotting to leave Real after a remarkable seven-year stay at the end of the season, with United and Paris Saint-Germain said to be leading the queue.

"Ronaldo plays on the wings and he is fast and scores goals," the Dutchman told a press conference after Saturday's 2-1 win at Watford. "There is no trainer in the world that doesn't like him.

"Of course we are looking - but are looking at all players, not just Ronaldo. But these players are mostly ungettable. With Ronaldo, let's wait and hope."

Ronaldo joined the Blancos from United for a then-world record £80m fee in 2009, before going on to become the Spanish club's leading goalscorer of all time.

His contract expires in 2018.