Madrid Clarify Makelele Situation

Real Madrid's sporting director Jorge Valdano has clarified the club's stance on Claude Makelele after he was linked with Manchester United.

"If Real Madrid do not reach an agreement with a team, Makelele has to serve his contract," Valdano was quoted as saying in AS.

"Makelele has three years left on his contract and he will serve them - those who have a contract don't have the freedom to choose their future."

"It is fair that if clubs comply religiously with their obligations, the players should do the same."

Makelele denied any interest in joining United.