Ronaldo Wanted Barca Move

Ronaldo's lawyer, Josep Oriola, has sensationally revealed that his client wanted to join Barcelona prior to his move to Real Madrid.

The player apparently spoke with Barca president Joan Gaspart and the transfer was on course until coach Louis Van Gaal blocked the move.

"I can say directly that Ronaldo wanted to move to FC Barcelona," said Oriola. "I know it from a good source that the Board was ready to sign Ronaldo."

"Mr Gaspart and Mr Ronaldo spoke personally, but it was Mr Van Gaal who refused to sign Ronaldo."

Oriola added that the player would have paid the four million euros to Inter to leave for Barcelona, and that he would have earned less with the Catalans than he does at Real.