Real Madrid rubbish Man Utd reports over Raul

Real Madrid sports chief Jorge Valdano has rubbished reports suggesting Raul is on his way to Manchester United.

Spanish radio reports yesterday claimed United had reached an agreement with Real that would see Raul move to Old Trafford for two years in exchange for the smooth transfers of David Beckham and assistant manager Carlos Queiroz.

But Valdano met with Raul's agent, Gines Carvajal, yesterday with the agent emerging from the talks to say: "I came to the club because of the rumours surrounding Raul. But the club has assured me what we have known for a very long time: Raul will be with Real Madrid for the next ten years."

"There are no problems between the club and the player, despite the rumours that are flying around."

"His relationship with president Florentino Perez is stronger than ever."