Teen involved in Berlusconi sex scandal claims to have slept with Ronaldo

A TEENAGER at the centre of a "bunga bunga" under-age sex scandal involving Italian PM Silvio Berlusconi says she also slept with soccer`s Cristiano Ronaldo.

Karima El Mahroug, 18, told prosecutors investigating Berlusconi that she had sex with the player after meeting him in a nightclub.

Belly dancer Karima said £80million Real Madrid striker Ronaldo knew she was only 17 when they had sex in a Milan hotel room in January 2010.

She told prosecutors that when she woke the ex-Manchester United star had gone and left her 4,000 euros in cash.

Karima said she was so upset she poured champagne over Ronaldo at another club. In Italy the age of consent is 14 but paying an under-18 for sex is illegal.

Berlusconi`s newspaper put the story on its front page under the headline: "Why are prosecutors dribbling around Ronaldo?"

Ronaldo last night denied the allegations.

In a statement on the website of GestiFute, the firm that represents Ronaldo, the star said: "Earlier today certain international media have alleged that I had sexual relations with Karima El Mahroug - the central name in the sex scandal involving the Italian Prime Minister - in exchange for payment and being aware that she was under age.

"The plot is made up of successive meetings in nightclubs, hotels and restaurants in Milan from December 29, 2009 until the eve before the 2010 World Cup.

"Such reports are totally false, I do not know the referred young woman, I have never met her, nor have I had any date or encounter with her. On December 29, 2009, in particular, I was in Madrid training, just as I did on the following day.

"In fact, in the period between December 2009 and June 2010 I did not go to Milan one single time, a fact that can be easily proven.

"I am a victim, once again of trashy and foul reporting. As on previous occasions, I will show no contemplation for those who involve my name in these sordid stories and who show no respect for other`s dignity and for the rules of their profession."

Berlusconi has been charged with having sex with Karima - who prosecutors say was an under-age prostitute at his "bunga bunga" parties - and abuse of power to secure her release when she was held for theft.

His trial is due in April.

He denies any wrongdoing.

sections: Celebrities