Valdano plays down talk of Beckham bid, Figo switch

The chances of Real Madrid signing David Beckham are extremely remote, the Spanish club's sporting director Jorge Valdano said on Thursday.

Valdano also ruled out the idea that Luis Figo could be sold to make room for the England captain.

Spanish and English newspapers have carried stories this week suggesting the Manchester United midfielder could be the next big target for Real, following their successful moves for Figo, Zinedine Zidane and Ronaldo in the past three years.

"With respect to the much discussed Beckham story, let me say two things," Valdano told Real Madrid TV.

"Firstly, the possibility of Beckham one day playing for Real Madrid is extremely remote."

"Secondly, the chances of Figo leaving Real are not even remote: the idea is impossible. Figo is one of our captains on the field."

"When a player of his class, which is extraordinary, becomes so identified with a club it would be stupid to lose him. On the contrary, we're going to try to keep him a major figure here for as long as possible."

Figo, speaking in an interview with sports daily Marca published on Thursday, also ruled out a move from Real.

"I've got three years on my contract and I'm going to see them out," Figo said. "I'm happy here and I'm just not the sort of player who changes clubs every year."