Manchester United have squashed rumours that Alex Ferguson could retire earlier if Cristiano Ronaldo is sold against his wishes.

The Premier League champions are responding to reports from the Daily Express that Ferguson will bring forward his retirement if the club owners agree to sell Ronaldo to Real Madrid.

"It is absolute nonsense," said a spokesman. "It is simply tiresome. We are not selling Cristiano Ronaldo."

Ferguson is said to be furious that Real Madrid are using the Spanish media to woo Ronaldo and is adamant the winger will stay at Old Trafford.

Earlier, FIFA announced they will not be taking any action on Real Madrid's attempts to influence a Ronaldo transfer to the Santiago Bernabeu.

Real were only warned, i.e. given a slap on the wrist, by the world governing body.

United have yet to respond and FIFA's decision is an apparent slap on their face.

By Eugene YS Han (espnstar.com)