Real Madrid tells Man Utd, Arsenal: Buyout clause must be matched for Makelele

Real Madrid have rejected reports suggesting they were willing to accept £6 million for midfielder Claude Makelele in January.

The French international's contract negotiations broke down with Real last week, sparking speculation that he would be sold when the transfer market reopens in the New Year.

However, Real rejected the claims yesterday, insisting Makelele would see out his current deal , which runs to 2005, and would only leave if a club was prepared to pay his buyout clause.

Manchester United, Arsenal, Inter Milan and AS Roma are all believed to be interested in the midfielder, though Real insisted yesterday they have not received any approaches for the Frenchman.