Real stand firm over Nihat

Real Sociedad want to keep Nihat Kahveci amid reports of fresh interest from Man Utd.

The future of the Turkish star has been thrown into doubt in recent weeks because of Sociedad's crippling debts.

Nihat recently rejected a new contract offer from the Basque outfit, and both parties have agreed to postpone talks on a new deal until the summer when the club's financial situation is likely to decide whether or not he will be sold on.

A number of clubs are thought to have checked on the 24-year-old in recent weeks after his uncertain situation at the Anoeta came to light.

United, who were linked with the forward two seasons ago, are understood to have rekindled their interest, and are reported to have sent boss Sir Alex Ferguson's son, Martin, to watch him in action last weekend.

The Turk caught the eye with two goals in Real's crucial 3-1 win at Racing Santander to take his season's tally to 13.

CSKA Moscow are known to have submitted an offer for the player and were keen to try and strike a deal to lure him from Sociedad before the end of the current season.

However, Sociedad president Jose Matia Asiazaran insists there is no chance of such a possibility.

"Yes, there is a formal interest from CSKA Moscow, but Nihat will not leave the club before the end of the season," he stated.

For his part, the former Besiktas star is focused on maintaining his form to try and ensure Sociedad avoid relegation from La Primera.

"I can't go now. I can't walk out on Real Sociedad," he stated.

"We are fighting to try and secure some tranquillity and I am one of those who thinks that the more strength there is in the team, the better.

"On Sunday we took a very important step in Santander, and now it is a question of continuing to take steps forward in the league."