Madrid deny Beckham rumours: statement

England captain David Beckham will not be going to Real Madrid under any circumstances, according to a Real Madrid statement.

The European champions took the unusual step to try and stop rumours that Manchester United's inspiration freekick specialist would be moving to the Bernabeu stadium.

The Madrid statement read: "Because of information in various sections of the press on the existence of Real Madrid interest to sign David Beckham, the club would like to make clear:

"1. There is no contact between Real Madrid and Manchester United on this subject.

"2. There has been no direct or indirect contact between Real Madrid and Beckham.

"3. Contrary to the rumours on this matter, Real has no intention of negotiating the signing of Beckham.

"4. That, despite the club rule not to use official channels to deny rumours, this statement was sent out to finally put an end to the uncertainty created by certain sources in linking Beckham to Real Madrid.

"5. In spite of the rumours, there is an unconditional, friendly relationship between the two clubs and respect for Beckham."

It should be noted, however, that Madrid president Florentino Perez, who brought superstars Luis Figo, Zinedine Zidane and Ronaldo to the club, once denied having contact with Ronaldo.