Fergie's Ronaldo problems double: Real still in the hunt and winger will miss the big kick-off

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Race for fitness: United's Cristiano Ronaldo

Sir Alex Ferguson was reeling from a double setback yesterday after Cristiano Ronaldo succumbed to a six-week injury lay-off but found himself still at the top of Real Madrid's wanted list.

The Manchester United winger was ruled out for twice as long as expected, following surgery on his right ankle in Amsterdam, and will miss the beginning of his side's Barclays Premier League title defence.

The twice Player of the Year was photographed hobbling through Amsterdam airport on crutches this morning.

Just as worryingly for Ferguson, Real president Ramon Calderon emerged from an unscheduled board meeting at the Bernabeu to make it clear their relentless pursuit of the 23-year old would remain unaffected.

Calderon further risked the wrath of a furious Ferguson by letting it be known Real had set aside 85million euros to push through a deal for Ronaldo, and adding that United should be 'happy and proud' to take part in the 'transfer of the century'.

He said: 'I think that, first of all, it is the desire of the player to join us. Manchester should not be angry about that. They should open up their stance.

'We cannot be blamed if nearly every player wants to come to Real Madrid. If I was Manchester United, I would be happy and proud to be able to negotiate such a transfer for one of my players.

'Everything would be a lot easier if United realised they could pull off the transfer of the century.'

Crutch of the debate: Cristiano Ronaldo hobbles through Amsterdam airport on on crutches after an operation on his injured right ankle

Calderon's latest comments add to the gloom over Ronaldo after he was initially expected to be sidelined for no more than three weeks.

Ferguson also needs a new assistant after Carlos Queiroz confirmed his imminent appointment as Portugal's new coach. Laurent Blanc, Mike Phelan and Brian McClair are early contenders.