Madrid, Dec 27 (IANS): Cristiano Ronaldo's agent Jorge Mendes has ruled out a Manchester United return, claiming the Portuguese winger will retire at Real Madrid.

And Mendes Friday even went so far as to claim Ronaldo is the greatest footballer of all time, and that his club should retire the famous number 7 shirt, worn by Raul and Alfredo Di Stefano, as a mark of respect, reports mirror.co.uk.

"I got to know him when he was a 15-year-old, from then until now we've spoken together on most days. When I’m in Madrid we always meet up, our relationship is more like a friendship," Mendes said.

"I believe that Cristiano will finish his career at Real Madrid. He’s happy at the club and is still keen to achieve more success in Madrid."

The Portuguese superstar is in the form of his life with Real Madrid, having already struck an astonishing 32 goals in all competitions for Los Blancos this season, including 25 in La Liga.

The 29-year-old, who won his second Ballon d'Or crown back in January, is favourite to retain the award at FIFA's annual gala next month.

And Mendes believes that not only is Ronaldo deserving of a third individual crown, but that he should be looked upon as world football's greatest ever performer.

"Cristiano is the greatest ever," declared Mendes.

"It'll be impossible for anyone to emulate him in the future. There’s just such a gulf between him and second best.”

Additionally, Mendes claimed that the Spanish giants should retire the No.7 shirt currently worn by Ronaldo when he leaves the club.