Man U accept record Real bid for Ronaldo

By Martyn Herman

LONDON (Reuters) - Manchester United have accepted a world record bid of 80 million pounds from Real Madrid for Portuguese winger Cristiano Ronaldo, the English champions said on Thursday.

United, who fended off the Spanish club's interest in the World and European Player of the Year 12 months ago, have given the nine-times European champions the go-ahead to talk to him.

"Manchester United have received a world-record, unconditional offer of 80 million pounds for Cristiano Ronaldo from Real Madrid," the club said.

"At Cristiano's request -- who has again expressed his desire to leave -- and after discussion with the player's representatives, United have agreed to give Real Madrid permission to talk to the player.

"Matters are expected to be concluded by June 30."

Real Madrid confirmed they had made an offer for Ronaldo.

"The club expects to reach an agreement with the player in coming days," Real said in a statement.

Should Real complete the signing of the 24-year-old it would seal a remarkable double for the Spanish giants who snapped up Brazilian playmaker Kaka from Milan this week for a fee reported to be around 68 million euros.