How Barcelona's Hijacked Move for Ronaldinho Forced Man United’s Signing of Cristiano Ronaldo

• Ronaldinho was 48 hours from a Manchester United transfer but joined Barcelona
• The snub from the Brazilian legend led to United signing Cristiano Ronaldo instead
• The Portuguese would later win the Ballon d’Or award with the Red Devils in 2008

Cristiano Ronaldo is a Manchester United cult hero after winning the UEFA Champions League, Premier League and Ballon d’Or with the Red Devils, before his first departure in 2009.

The Portugal forward might not have been a Man United player however, if the English league giants had gotten their preferred target - Ronaldinho.

According to Talk Sport, Man United were just 48 hours from landing a 23-year-old Ronaldinho, before the deal was hijacked by Barcelona in the final hours.

Joan Laporta and Sandro Rosell launched their presidential campaign for La Blaugrana in 2003, by guaranteeing one of three superstar signings: David Beckham, Thierry Henry or Ronaldinho.

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After failing to entice Henry from Arsenal and losing Beckham to Real Madrid, the new president and vice president snatched Ronaldinho from United's hands at the last minute.

Ronaldinho’s son joins Barcelona

In related news, Brazil legend, Ronaldinho has announced that his 17-year-old son, Joao Mendes has been signed by La Liga giants, Barcelona as he continues to follow in his father’s footsteps, Marca reports.

Mendes had been on trial with the Catalans' youth team for several weeks after terminating his contract with Brazilian outfit, Cruzeiro.

While there is clear enthusiasm about the son of the former Los Cules icon joining the La Liga giants' ranks, there is also the added benefit of Ronaldinho likely returning to Camp Nou on a more frequent basis.

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Ronaldinho awarded legend trophy

Earlier, Sports Brief reported on Ronaldinho's legendary career being recognised in fitting fashion, by scooping a big award at Mundo Deportivo's Gran Gala.

The former Barcelona player won the 'Legend Trophy' for his achievements and was presented with the award by the club's president, Joan Laporta.

The Barca president and Brazilian attacker share a good relationship, with Ronaldinho being Laporta's first big signing as club chief.