Former Manchester United striker Ruud van Nistelrooy admits Cristiano Ronaldo would be welcome at Real Madrid.
Reports have claimed that Real are planning a block-busting bid to prise the winger away from Old Trafford.
United have swiftly dismissed the rumours and are aiming to reward the Portugal international's flying form this season with a new contract.
It is unlikely to stop the speculation and ex-Red Devils hot shot Van Nistelrooy feels the situation is also in Ronaldo's hands.
"Great players are always welcome at Real Madrid and Ronaldo is a fantastic player," said Van Nistelrooy.
"United won't give up Ronaldo very easily, definitely not. But it's also in the player's hands.
"If the player is aware of the situation and doesn't want to stay any more and doesn't commit himself, then anything can happen.
"That will make a massive impact on the situation and it's one for Madrid and Manchester United to sort out.
"This season is the best he has had since he has been at Manchester, scoring many goals and playing very well.
"He is young and he has much experience from the World Cup and European Championships. He is very young, a favourite of Ferguson."
During the final stages of his own United career, Van Nistelrooy had run-ins with Ronaldo on the training ground, but insists this would not be a problem if the 21-year-old moved to the Bernabeu.
He added: "There wasn't much that happened between us in Manchester. It was all blown up a bit.
"But if he is interested in a move, then things could happen and we'll see."