Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson believes Cristiano Ronaldo would prefer to extend his stay at the club rather than join Real Madrid.

The 23-year-old was continually linked with the Spanish giants over the summer but has now publicly committed himself to United.

"Real know they are dealing with a different animal now," said Ferguson.

"As he gets older, he'll appreciate being here more. The longer players stay, they don't want to leave."

Ronaldo, who is sidelined through injury and not expected back until October, has a contract running until 2012 at Old Trafford.

But Ferguson said he would like to extend the star's deal.

"Cristiano will now settle down and enjoy his career here," said Ferguson.

"He has four years left on his contract and hopefully, at some point, we would like to extend it. That's where we are.

"I can't deny it was an important issue to keep him here. There are very few players who have left me against my will and it is unusual for anybody to want to leave United.

"I think Cristiano realises that. We had a good meeting in Portugal that clarified a lot of things.

"It was good and I was pleased with it and that's why I felt everything was going to be all right."

Of Ronaldo's interview with a Portuguese newspaper where the winger clarifying his position, Ferguson added: "We're happy. Cristiano's interview was very good and he explained himself perfectly from my perspective."

"As I said on Wednesday, the matter is closed and he is a Manchester United player.

"He is happy to be a Manchester United player and he has always been happy here.

"It's just unfortunate that the participation of Real Madrid in the player's life that has made it difficult for him.

"But the important thing is that we have ended all the stuff about Real Madrid."