Morientes to snub Roma for Real Madrid stay

Fernando Morientes is indicating he does not want to leave Real Madrid when the January transfer window opens.

The Spanish international centre-forward is the subject of intense interest from AS Roma, who want the striker on a six-month loan.

Roma chiefs will step up their bid for Morientes this week, but will find that the he is ready to stay and fight for his place at Real until at least the end of the season.

Although they have received tentative enquiries from other clubs, Roma is the only rival showing genuine interest in Morientes leading up to January's transfer market.

Complicating matters further is that the centre-forward is Cup-tied after playing in the Champions League this season.