Roberto Carlos rules out United

On Tuesday, the two daily sports papers, Marca and AS combined with an interesting link to the left-side of Real's defence.

The Brazilian superstar could have been on his way to England, if United made a large enough bid, whilst Ajax's Cristian Chivu would end up at Estadio Santiago Bernabeu.

Real had an offer on the table for the Romanian but it would appear that they are now going to allow this to go by the wayside.

Speaking to Marca about his intentions, Roberto Carlos said: "I want to remain in Madrid.

"I am happy with what I have read but calm in relation to my future."

Roberto Carlos confirmed that neither sporting director Jorge Valdano nor Florentino Perez, the president of Real, had been in touch with him regarding any United interest, hardly surprising given that their first knowledge of the interest was likely to have been through the Spanish press.

"It is the same as the recent case of Internazionale and the news of my assumed return to Italy.  Whilst Valdano or the president do not say anything to me, everything that does happen is mere speculation," added the player.

The 29-year-old concluded: "Real Madrid and Spain have always treated me well.

"I have played well there.  They know that they can be calm with me.  I want to stay and I will continue playing with the same desire."