Erik ten Hag confirms desire to keep Cristiano Ronaldo at Manchester United

Incoming Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag has described Cristiano Ronaldo as "a giant", confirming that he would like to keep the forward at Old Trafford.

Despite United's poor campaign, Ronaldo has still contributed 24 goals in the Premier League and the Champions League, defying having turned 37 years of age in February.

With United and Ten Hag planning an overhaul of the squad this summer, it was suggested at one stage that the Portuguese superstar would be allowed to move elsewhere.

However, speaking to De Telegraaf, Ten Hag has left it in no doubt that he wants Ronaldo to feature in his first-team squad next season.

The departing Ajax head coach said: "Ronaldo is a giant, because of what he's already shown and I think he's still very ambitious.

"Of course I would like to keep him. He's been very important to Manchester United this year and can produce great statistics."

Ronaldo possesses one more year on his United contract, with both parties having the option to discuss a further extension before it expires in 2023.