Ronaldo 'in love' with model ex

Cristiano Ronaldo has become infatuated with his ex-girlfriend Nereida Gallardo again, according to a report.

The Portuguese footballer split from Gallardo last summer following allegations that he had cheated on her repeatedly while on holiday in the US.

Ronaldo's change of heart allegedly follows pressure from his mother Dolores, 54, despite press rumours that she disapproved of the Spanish model.

A source told the Daily Star: "Dolores was really upset with Cristiano over the way he treated Nereida - she felt terrible for her. Some said she never liked Nereida because she thought she was after Cristiano's money, but that was not true. Dolores liked Nereida and was certain she was going to be the one.

"After they broke up, Dolores kept in touch with her and tried to help her get over him. Then she told Cristiano to apologise to Nereida, and told Nereida to forgive her son."

Ronaldo is believed to have exchanged a series of text messages with Gallardo in recent weeks after his mother's peacemaking bore fruit.

The insider added: "He has realised how much he missed her - he has fallen in love with her again."

The 23-year-old was romantically linked to hotel heiress Paris Hilton last week.