Cristiano Ronaldo in Barcelona? Spanish newspaper publishes joke that Portuguese superstar wants to leave Manchester United and even rent Lionel Messi’s house the equivalent of April Fool’s Day

The Spanish press reports that Cristiano Ronaldo has offered his services to Barcelona because he is currently unhappy at Manchester United.

But before United fans hit the panic stations, this is all just a joke designed to fool unsuspecting readers.

December 28 is El Dia de Los Inocentes, which is basically April Fool’s Day for the Spanish-speaking world.

Mundo Deportivo crafted the story which, if true, would have sent shockwaves through the football community.

Ronaldo is, of course, a Real Madrid legend thanks to an incredible 450 goals in 438 games. It included four stunning Champions League triumphs.

His career rivalry with Barcelona hero Lionel Messi defined the two players and there have been many classic battles between the two.

While the debate over who is / was better will rage for years, Barcelona fans have developed a natural dislike for Ronaldo because he played for Madrid.

Maybe that’s why the idea that he wants to join the Catalan club is so humorous.

History claimed that Barcelona center-back Gerard Pique had been contacted by the Portuguese superstar and asked to put him in touch with new boss Xavi.

He also suggested that his agent, Jorge Mendes, was in talks with the cash-strapped club hierarchy.

He added that Pique even asked Messi if Ronaldo could rent his house to him if he joined him.

There were some clues that the story was a joke with the signing given to “Inocencio dos Santos”, while the text describes it as “a signing that more than one at the club thought was a joke”.

Although the story is entirely fictional, it does come at the right time with Ronaldo seemingly unhappy with the way things are going at Old Trafford.

Their draw at Newcastle saw the 36-year-old hurtle down the tunnel full-time.