New Real Madrid manager Rafa Benitez says Cristiano Ronaldo is the best player in the world and will be a key player in his line-up next season.
According to reports, the Red Devils are working on a club-record deal to bring the 30-year-old back to Old Trafford.
But Benitez says the Portuguese is as competitive as ever ahead of the new campaign.
"Luckily, I have had the opportunity this week to spend quite a few days with him," Benitez told reporters on Thursday.
"And I can say that he's competitive, he likes to win, and for that reason he is the best in the world. I would like all players to have that desire to win and to compete.
"You've all seen him train today and I think his performance will be up to scratch.
"I talk to all the players a lot. I have had the opportunity to talk to him, too. We talked about football and yes, he is competitive.
"Seeing Ronaldo up close training, I can see that he's doing very well."
