Sergio Ramos in tears at Real Madrid farewell as Manchester United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer told to do ‘everything in his power’ to sign ‘world class’ defender

Sergio Ramos bid a tearful farewell to Real Madrid after it was announced he would be leaving the club after 16 years.

The 35-year-old, who has been with Madrid since 2005 and won 22 major honours with the Spanish giants, will depart at the end of his contract this summer.

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Real held a press conference on Thursday to mark his exit, with president Florentino Perez paying tribute before Ramos stepped up to the stage to bid his farewells.

"It is not an easy day, because you are special to me. I wish you happiness and I want you to know that this will always be your home," Perez said to Ramos.

"A legend like you will always be one of the great ambassadors of Real Madrid."

With his family watching on, Ramos was emotional after he took to the stage and received a round of applause from those present as he broke down in tears.

He said: "I'll always keep Real Madrid in my heart. A marvellous stage in my life is over, but a new exciting future awaits and I am looking forward to showing my level and winning some more trophies.

"You're never prepared to say adios to Real Madrid but the moment has arrived. This is a 'adieu' as sooner or later I will return.

"I would like to thank the fans, they carried me in their arms at all times. I would have liked to say goodbye at the Bernabeu. But I will always carry you in my heart."

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Ramos arrived at the Bernabeu from Sevilla in 2005 and went on to have a glittering career, winning everything possible as captain.

He lifted five La Liga titles, four Champions League crowns, four Club World Cups, three UEFA Super Cups, as well as the Copa Del Rey twice.

Ramos is Madrid's second most decorated player in their history behind Paco Gento.

It was during his time in the Spanish capital that he also won the 2010 World Cup with Spain along with successive European Championships in 2008 and 2012.

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Karim Benzema, who spent 12 years with Ramos at Real, paid tribute to his teammate on Twitter, labelling him 'more than a captain'.

He wrote: "More than a Capitán, my friend, my brother thanks for all the moments we spent together on the road of success for the @realmadrid Wish you all the best legend @SergioRamos."

Ramos will be a free agent and a host of top clubs are already reported to be interested in signing him.

Jamie O'Hara believes Ramos would be an 'ideal' signing for Manchester United and has told Ole Gunnar Solskjaer he should be going all out to sign the veteran defender.

The talkSPORT pundit believes the 35-year-old could have a similar effect at Old Trafford to the one Thiago Silva has had at Chelsea, with the Brazilian helping the Blues triumph in the Champions League last term.

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“If I’m Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, I’m doing everything in my power to get him to the football club – even if it’s for one season,” O’Hara told the talkSPORT Breakfast.

“He is a world class centre-half, amazing player. He's what I think they need. Yes, he's 35, but he's as fit as a fiddle.

“I know he had a few injuries last season but what a player to try and get to your club.

“He's won it all and done everything. I think he could be great for Man United, I really do.”