Atletico Madrid head-coach Diego Simeone has ruled out the possibility of securing the services of Manchester United striker Cristiano Ronaldo.

The 37-year-old was heavily linked with a switch away from Old Trafford throughout the summer transfer window, however, a host of top European teams allegedly turned down the chance to secure his services.

The Portuguese superstar has since endured a tough start to the 2022-23 season, starting six of his 12 games across all competitions and founding the back of the net twice.

The five-time Ballon d’Or winner’s future at Old Trafford stays uncertain, with his deal set to end in the summer.

Spanish giants were one of a number of teams rumored with a potential swoop for the ex-Real Madrid striker, however, Simeone has dismissed the prospect of luring the Portuguese legend back to the Spanish capital.

Speaking to Diario AS, via Sport Witness, Simeone said: “[Ronaldo] is an absolute benchmark for Real Madrid, you would not see it.

“You would not see Palermo playing at River; you would not see [Juan Roman] Riquelme at River, you would not see [Ariel] Ortega at [Boca Juniors]. There are situations that are very clear.”

The Argentine head coach added: “I remember that in pre-season a fan yelled a great phrase at me: ‘Cholo, be careful, the Champions League is not at all costs’. And I liked it, it’s a very healthy reflection, from the neighbourhood, from the team, from the fan, from the heart.”