Valencia reject Real Madrid bid for Ayala

Valencia has turned down an undisclosed offer from Real Madrid for defender Roberto Ayala.

The Argentine is Real's No1 target leading up to Sunday's transfer deadline, but their bid yesterday was turned down.

"He is a very important player for Valencia and he is going to stay at the club in the future," said Valencia president Jaime Orti.

"Next week we are going to meet with the player and his agent with the aim of extending his contract."

"I just want to reassure the fans that the player will remain here to help Valencia attain more success in the future."