"This afternoon Real Madrid completed the transfer of Ronaldo Luis Nazario de Lima to AC Milan," the club said in a statement after the 30-year-old striker completed the deal to take him back to Italy, where he played for Inter Milan for five years before coming to Spain in 2002.

"Real Madrid want to pass on their recognition of this singular footballer for what he has achieved over this time through providing moments of great football which 'madridistas' will never forget," the club added on their official website.

"One hundred and four goals in the white shirt and his trophy record perfectly describe one of the best players to have worn our number nine shirt.

"Now, with the time having come to say goodbye, Real Madrid want to reiterate their thanks to Ronaldo and to wish him all the best sporting success and, above all, maximum personal happiness," the club said in parting with the three-time FIFA World Player of the Year.