Real Madrid chief Butragueno rules out Barcelona's Messi

Real Madrid vice-president Emilio Butragueno insists they would never consider trying to prise Argie whiz Lionel Messi away from Barcelona.

Real have been linked with the 17 year-old after a contract cock-up has left him available for just £250,000.

But referring to the transfer truce between the two clubs, Butragueno said: "We are respectful to Barcelona. It is illogical that reports say we have approached this player or we have made him an offer. I do not know who can say this. There has been nothing."

"We won't be always denying these rumours, but this is important to make clear."