David Beckham has expressed empathy with Cristiano Ronaldo's wish to
leave Manchester United for Real Madrid.

The LA Galaxy star's comments came after Ronaldo agreed with Fifa
president Sepp Blatter's claims that United was treating him "like a
modern-day slave".

Beckham said Real Madrid was the only club he wanted to play for when
he left Old Trafford.

"You know, living in Madrid and playing for Madrid - there's not many
clubs like that apart from Manchster United, which is equal," he
said.

"To have those two choices is good for (Ronaldo)."

In an exclusive interview with Sky News, Blatter had earlier said the
current post-Bosman practice of tying players to long contracts
amounts
to "modern slavery".

And the player himself - who wants a move to Madrid despite being
under
contract with United until 2012 - agreed.

Ronaldo told the Portuguese station TVI: "I agree completely with the
president of Fifa.

"Now I have to wait and see... but I do not know where I will begin
the
season."

Blatter is urging United and Madrid "to sit together" if Ronaldo wants
a move to the Spanish club.

"If the player wants to play somewhere else, then a solution should be
found," he said.

"Because if he stays in a club where he does not feel comfortable to
play then it's no good for the player and for the club.

"I'm always in favour to protect the player and if the player wants to
leave, let him leave."

United insists Ronaldo is not for sale, must stay to see out his
contract and are expecting him to return to their Carrington
training complex
next week.