Manchester United could fund Ronaldo deal with star departure

Will Mata or Van Persie leave Old Trafford? (©GettyImages).

Manchester United could help fund a sensational move for Real Madrid superstar Cristiano Ronaldo by selling either of Juan Mata or Robin van Persie. 

This has been reported by the Telegraph, who have suggested that the Red Devils will have to pay a package worth £140 million for the player's services in the 2015 summer transfer window. 

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Ronaldo link 

Manchester United have been linked with the Portuguese superstar for some time now, with Red Devils boss Louis van Gaal having already confirmed his interest in the player's services. 

Ronaldo, of course, left Old Trafford for the Spanish giants for a then world record fee of £80 million in the summer of 2009, but could now make a dramatic return to the club he joined as a teenager. 

And, it appears that United's willingness to stump up a huge fee for the World Player of the Year puts them in the driving seat to bring him back to the Premier League. As well as United, Chelsea and Manchester City have also been linked with the phenomenon in recent time. French money-bags Paris Saint Germain have also been credited with interest in Ronaldo, as Real Madrid consider entering a new era without their prize asset. 

Duo to exit? 

However, it now appears that Louis van Gaal could sell one of his top stars in order to make way for the signature of the club's former No.7. It's been suggested that either of Van Persie or Mata could depart the Theatre of Dreams at the end of the season, with Van Gaal continuing to make changes at the club.

Mata, of course, only signed for United in January of this year from Chelsea, but may struggle for opportunities this term with the array of attacking talent at the club's disposal. Van Persie, meanwhile, has struggled to find his best form so far this season, but will be desperate to find his magic touch in the near future. 

Van Gaal and Van Persie have a fine relationship following their days together with the Dutch national team, so it remains to be seen as to whether the Manchester United boss would be willing to move him on next year. 

Manchester United fans: Would you be happy to see Mata or Van Persie leave in order to bring Ronaldo back to Old Trafford? Have your say in the comments section below!