Manchester United striker Carlos Tevez has broken ranks by claiming Cristiano Ronaldo should be allowed to join Real Madrid if he wishes.

Ronaldo has been the transfer story of the summer, with the Portugal winger expressing his desire to play for Real, who in turn have made him their number one target.

United have been furious with Real's public pursuit of the player, once again reiterating this week that they have no intention of selling their prize asset.

But Old Trafford team-mate Tevez has risked incurring the wrath of Alex Ferguson by claiming the European champions should not stand in Ronaldo's way if he wants to leave.

"The (United) team has great players, including Cristiano Ronaldo, of course," said Tevez.

"It's clear that he is a very important player for us, but this is a personal decision, which is up to only him.

"I understand Cristiano. Every footballer wants to play at Real Madrid. On the other hand, I also think that everyone wants to play for Manchester United, but if what he seeks is something else, I think that should be respected.

"I have not talked to him, but when these things happen, neither side feels good."