Atletico deny United deal

[Mac 10 †]

Atletico deny United deal

Atletico Madrid have told skysports.com that there has been no approach from Manchester United for Fernando Torres.

Speculation has been rife in the English media that United had all but sealed Torres's signature for next season by making a £5 million 'down payment' with Atletico.

United, along with most of Europe's elite clubs, have been trailing Torres for a number of seasons - but it appeared Sir Alex Ferguson's side had crept to the head of the queue for his services.

However, Atletico - who have always been resolute in their determination to hang on to one of the most gifted young players in Europe - have exclusively revealed to skysports.com that the latest reports are again inaccurate.

"We are tired of this question," sporting director Jesus Garcia Pitarch told skysports.com.

"Atletico is a club that doesn't speak about rumours, but I insist that we have not received any proposition from United or any other club in recent times for Torres.

"For us this subject is closed. 'El Nino' is our player and has just signed a contract with Atletico for a long time and it is our intention not sell him."

Torres's recent deal saw him pledge his future to his home-town club to the summer of 2009 - but the fact his get-out clause was reduced to £27 million from a massive £60 million, has led to renewed suggestions that he will depart next within the next 12 months.

I hope to God they don't sign him!

[KURUPTION-81]

Torres confirmed the other day that united did make a bid for him but Athletico rejected it.

"Well, there was interest (from United) and when there is interest it gets put to Atletico," the 22-year-old said. "They are the ones who have the last word and I don't know anymore about it."

http://www.skysports.com/skysports/article/0,,17-1235842,00.html

[Sweet & Tender Hooligan]

Would be a fantastic signing.