United Priced Out Of Deal For Ronaldo Replacement?

Last updated : 23 June 2009 By Ed

From the Torygraph:

'As Sir Alex Ferguson steps up his efforts to find a suitable replacement for Cristiano Ronaldo, Costa's representative, Cesar Bottega confirmed that the two clubs have made contact about the 18-year-old.

But he added that with a reported $21million (£13.5m) get out clause in the player's current contract, not to mention the fee Gremio president Duda Kreoff is holding out for, United look likely to be disappointed.

"There have been some informal conversations [but] I don't believe they can reach those values," Bottaga said. "Right now, an offer might come in at a maximum of £6.7million. But this would not be enough for [Gremio] president Duda Kroeff.

"At the end of the Brazilian championship, Douglas will be worth at least twice what he's worth now."'