Real Madrid forward Cristiano Ronaldo has praised compatriot Fabio Coentrao in the wake of recent rumours linking the Benfica defender with a move to the Spanish giants.
"Everybody knows Fabio Coentrao,” the Portugal international told Spanish daily AS. “Therefore, it is not really necessary to talk about his qualities.
“He is a very strong player and can play in several positions. He is one of the best players in the world.”
The left-back himself seems to have set his sights on a move to the Santiago Bernabeu as he has made it clear that he will leave Benfica only for Madrid.
The 23-year-old Portuguese, who can also play as a left-winger, initially appeared to be on his way to German giants Bayern Munich, but the Bavarians are reluctant to meet Benfica's €30 million asking price.
Coentrao joined Benfica from Rio Ave in 2007 and has scored two goals in 54 appearances for the Portuguese giants since then.
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