Cristiano Ronaldo talks up Manchester United after third Ballon d'Or win

Cristiano Ronaldo has hinted that he would consider a move back to Manchester United after he was honoured with his third Ballon d'Or title.

Ronaldo, who signed for United in 2003, is among the best players to ever ply their trade under Sir Alex Ferguson, winning the Champions League and three Premier League titles before moving to Real Madrid for a record deal in 2009.

The 29-year-old helped Madrid win their tenth Champions league trophy last season when they defeated Atletico Madrid in the finals and has also won the La Liga title under Jose Mourinho in 2012.

However, the Portuguese international revealed that he still thinks about life at Old Trafford, the club from where he started his progression to one of the best players in the world. United have been linked with a move for Ronaldo over the last couple of transfer windows and his latest revelation may move Louis van Gaal's hand, who is looking for some inspiration on the back of a torrid festive period.

The forward is rumoured to cost United up to £140m should he decide to move, including transfer fees and wages, a deal not beyond the Red Devils, given their current financial security.

"I think about Manchester United. The beginning of my career was there, that's where I started. I know the fans are there supporting me," Ronaldo said.

"I haven't had a message from Sir Alex yet, but I speak with him often.

"He told me to keep improving all the time. He said, 'Cristiano, you're the best, don't worry about the rest'.

"He's fantastic, I miss him," Ronaldo added.

Ferguson has been a huge supporter of the player since he was assigned to the first team. With United, Ronaldo has won numerous individual awards. It will be an emotional moment for fans, once Ronaldo chooses to make a return to Old Trafford, a situation which is not beyond the realms of possibility according to Van Gaal.

"It is possible. That's what I have said with Falcao. Players like Ronaldo give a lot of extra to a team, but I don't think Real Madrid shall sell him," the Dutchman had said.