Manchester United sponsors 'pressurising club to keep hold of Cristiano Ronaldo'

The 37-year-old has expressed a desire to leave the club should a suitable offer come in for him despite having a year left on his current contract.

Ronaldo is allegedly disappointed with United's inactivity in the transfer window, while he is also determined to play in the Champions League next season.

According to the Mirror, United's headline sponsors are pressuring the club to retain the services of the Portugal international.

The report suggests that some sponsors helped finance the player's wages - which are estimated to be £500,000 a week - and they are keen to benefit from Ronaldo's significant commercial reach for the duration of his two-year contract.

Although United are keen to keep the striker, they are looking to avoid the situation turning into a drawn-out battle between club and player.