Former Bayern Munich CEO Karl-Heinz Rummenigge has pleaded with UEFA to intervene if Cristiano Ronaldo completes a stunning move to Manchester United.
The 36-year-old's future at Juventus is firmly in doubt as the forward has been linked with a move to the likes of United, Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain.
The speculation has been rife all summer long, but it has intensified going into the final week of the transfer window as the five-time Ballon d'Or winner asked to be benched for his side's Serie A game against Udinese on Sunday.
A return to Old Trafford has been touted, but it remains to be seen who is leading the race for his signature if he does depart Turin.
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But ex-Bayern chief Rummenigge insists UEFA needs to step in and take action if he re-joins Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's side as Ronaldo's salary demands means there are only a few clubs who have a realistic chance of signing him, pointing to the financial gulf between certain clubs and the rest of Europe.
He told Reif ist live, via OK Diario: "Cristiano Ronaldo? The biggest problem is the question of who can pay his salary," Rummenigge said. "He earns €70m per year gross, which is €35m net. Who can afford it? PSG or an English club.
"It is not a very healthy way to progress, and I would call on UEFA to do something.
"We need precise regulations because if not costs will go up again. Intervention is necessary or football will have to face a very, very difficult time."
Ronaldo has poured cold water over a return to the Bernabeu, however, after reports emerged that Madrid were in pole position to sign him.
He said on Instagram : "My story at Real Madrid has been written. It's been recorded. In words and numbers, in trophies and titles, in records and in headlines. It's in the Museum at the Bernabeu Stadium and it's also in the minds of every fan of the club.
"And beyond what I achieved, I remember that in those nine years I had a relationship of deep affection and respect for 'merengue afición', an affection and respect that I retain to this day, and that I will always cherish.
"I know that the true Real Madrid fans will continue to have me in their hearts, and I will have them in mine."
Juve boss Max Allegri insists Ronaldo has told him that he wants to stay with the Italians.
He said: " [Ronaldo] has never expressed a desire to leave.
"He has told me that he's staying, so we can clear that one up."
