MADRID TO STEP UP RONALDO PURSUIT

The unlikely figure of Abou Diaby may prove a pivotal figure in Real Madrid's attempt to persuade Manchester United to sell Cristiano Ronaldo.

The Arsenal midfielder was the culprit of a clumsy challenge during the Gunners' friendly with Real Madrid on Sunday that resulted in Dutch playmaker Wesley Sneijder leaving the pitch on a stretcher. The initial diagnosis was that Sneijder had snapped a cruciate knee ligament, an ailment that would rule him out for at least six months.

The injury could in turn have repercussions for two of Arsenal's Premier League rivals, with Madrid now expected to step up their efforts to sign Ronaldo and put Robinho's proposed move to Chelsea on hold. In any case, the Brazilian's move to Stamford Bridge was thought to be dependent on Madrid first capturing Ronaldo.

For the first time since May, Ronaldo will travel to Manchester this week. According to The Sunday Telegraph, the player will then 'attempt to force Manchester United's hand by meeting Sir Alex Ferguson, the manager, and David Gill, the chief executive, to insist he be allowed to move to the Bernabeu.

'Ronaldo has told Madrid about his intentions in an attempt to appease their frustration at his lack of agitation for a move away from Old Trafford. Real will offer £68 million but need him to force United into the sale.'