Madrid, July 10 (IANS): Reigning European champions Real Madrid announced on Tuesday that they have accepted the request from super star forward Cristiano Ronaldo for a transfer to record Serie A winners Juventus FC.
In an official statement, Real Madrid thanked Ronaldo for his services to the club, hailing the Portuguese star as the best player in the world.
"Real Madrid C. F. communicates that, according to the will and request expressed by the player Cristiano Ronaldo, (we have) agreed to transfer him to Juventus F. C.
"Today Real Madrid wants to express its gratitude to a player who has proved to be the best in the world and who has marked one of the most brilliant times in the history of our club and world football," the Spanish giants said on their official website.
"Beyond the conquered titles, the trophies achieved and the triumphs achieved in the playing fields during these 9 years, Cristiano Ronaldo has been an example of dedication, work, responsibility, talent and improvement," the statement added.
The transfer deal, which was in the works for sometime now, has reportedly been settled for 105 million euros ($123.25 million).
The move is expected to be a major boost for Juventus, who have dominated the Italian league in recent years, winning the top flight title seven years in a row. They have also finished runners-up in the Champions League twice in the last four years.
"He has also become the top scorer in the history of Real Madrid with 451 goals in 438 games. The 16 titles include 4 European Cups, 3 of them consecutive and 4 in the last 5 seasons.
"For Real Madrid Cristiano Ronaldo will always be one of its great symbols and a unique reference for the next generations," the statement further said.
"Real Madrid will always be your home."
