Raul backs Real Madrid bid for Man Utd's Ronaldo

Real Madrid captain Raul has given president Ramon Calderon the thumbs up over his pursuit of Manchester United star Cristiano Ronaldo - though with a warning.

AS says Calderon made Raul aware of their push for Ronaldo immediately after celebrating back-to-back championships last season, with the president declaring: "We will try to sign Cristiano Ronaldo and I would like to know your opinion as leader of the dressing room."

Raul replied: "President, at this moment he is the No1 in the world. Anything that can improve the team is good and he can make us grow."

"But you cannot afford to experiment. Please, do not ruin the spirit we have."