Portugal's World Cup winger Cristiano Ronaldo is not for sale, his English club Manchester United said yesterday.

"The club can confirm there is no possibility of Cristiano being sold," United said in a statement.

"Cristiano recently signed a new contract until 2010 and the club fully expects him to honor that contract," the statement posted on United's official Web site said.

"The club will not listen to any offers for Cristiano."

British newspapers have speculated that Ronaldo might want a move away after at least partially blaming the 21-year-old for the sending-off of his club teammate Wayne Rooney in Portugal's World Cup quarterfinal against England.

Newspapers have also linked Ronaldo with a move to Real Madrid, quoting the Spanish giants' new coach Fabio Capello as being interested in the 21-year-old.

"Manchester United has noted the increasing media speculation over the future of Cristiano Ronaldo," the statement continued.

"Cristiano is one of the brightest young stars in world football as demonstrated by his performances at the World Cup and Manchester United is not in the business of selling their best young players."

Portugal beat England on penalties, then lost their semifinal 1-0 to France.