BRUSSELS: UEFA president Michel Platini described Real Madrid's world record bid for Manchester United's Cristiano Ronaldo as "excessive" at a time when the world is in the midst of a financial crisis.

"It is very puzzling at a time when football faces some of its worst ever financial challenges," Platini said. "These transfers are a serious challenge to the idea of fairplay and the concept of financial balance in our competitions," he added.

The head of European soccer's governing body was referring to Madrid's 80 million-pound ($131.2 million) bid for Portugal winger Ronaldo and their recent signing of Brazil midfielder Kaka for about 68 million euros ($95.42 million).