Real Madrid appear to be keeping their options open concerning a transfer of Cristiano Ronaldo.

Ronaldo faces serious tax accusations and he's frustrated by the lack of support he has received from Real Madrid.

Florentino Pérez noted that Ronaldo remained under contract, said that he was “a Madrid player” and, in an interview with Marca which appeared the next day, that he would “continue to be”. He said: “The best thing for him and Madrid is for him to stay.” He also said: “Right now, Cristiano is a Real Madrid player and something very strange would have to happen for him not to be, and I am not [even] contemplating that.”

Perez could have ruled out the possibility of selling Ronaldo but chose not to.

While the timing isn't perfect, Real Madrid could see selling him now as an opportunity to get a monster fee and set up the club for their existence without him. Real Madrid has won back-to-back Champions League Finals and have more depth than ever.