Cristiano Ronaldo holds secret meeting with Alex Ferguson over Man United future

The pair have always enjoyed a close relationship.

Cristiano Ronaldo has reportedly discussed his future at Manchester United with former manager Alex Ferguson in a number of secret meetings. As reported by the Mirror, the Portuguese international, who lives close to Ferguson in Cheshire, has been involved in a number of conversations with the 80-year-old over cups of tea at their respective homes throughout the Red Devils' underwhelming campaign. It adds that Ronaldo has visited Ferguson's home on several occasions, with the Scotsman also spending time with the former Real Madrid man and his family at Ronaldo's own home.

Ferguson wants Ronaldo to 'protect his legacy' at United.

Ferguson signed Ronaldo for United from Sporting CP in 2003, and was instrumental in the 37-year-old re-joining the club in a £12.9 million move last summer. It is thought that the pair have maintained a close bond and that Ferguson is keen for the forward to 'protect his legacy' by remaining at United next season. Despite United's disappointing season, Ronaldo has enjoyed a successful campaign on a personal note. The frontman has scored 24 goals in 38 appearances in all competitions, including two hat-tricks against Tottenham and Norwich. https://twitter.com/ManUnitedZone_/status/1523054290813833216 While Ronaldo has another year left on his current deal at Old Trafford, with the option of a third season. Several reports throughout the season have suggested that he could leave the club in the summer. However, the Mirror add that Ferguson would like Ronaldo to stay at least another season, with the pair understood to have spoken about the Reds Devils' poor campaign.

Ronaldo is quiet on his future plans.

It remains unclear what the Portugal captain's plans are, but incoming new manager Erik ten Hag is said to be ready to implement big changes at Old Trafford. United suffered a 4-0 thrashing at Brighton on Saturday evening, which ended the Red Devils' thin hopes of securing a place inside the top four. Related links:

• Toni Kroos reveals story behind nearly signing for David Moyes' Man United in 2014.
• Jamie Carragher makes stark comparison with Man United re-signing Cristiano Ronaldo.
• Man United have reportedly named their price for Marcus Rashford.

---