United reject Ronaldo rumours

MANCHESTER UNITED have rejected reports that winger Cristiano Ronaldo is stalling on contract talks.

The 19-year-old, who scored his third goal of the season in the 3-1 Premiership victory over Aston Villa at Old Trafford, joined the Red Devils in a £12.2 million deal from Sporting Lisbon 18 months ago.

Alex Ferguson has admitted even he has been startled by Ronaldo's progress since then and despite his tender years he is now regarded as an automatic selection in Ferguson's first-choice line-up. Having signed a five-year contract when he initially joined the club, Ronaldo still has well over three seasons remaining on his present deal and United have claimed there is no issue over any renegotiation.