Real Madrid have dismissed reports claiming that Michael Owen will leave the club.

The 25-year-old, who spent much of first season at the Bernabeu on the substitutes bench, has been linked with Chelsea, Arsenal and Manchester United.

But Real director of football Arrigo Sacchi told the Daily Star: “Owen is not for sale because he is part of our coach Wanderley Luxemburgo’s plans.

“Some things written about who is coming to and leaving Real are almost as incredible as science fiction.”

Sacchi said that Owen was happy to stay in Madrid.

“Owen has not told us he is unhappy or that he wants to leave and that is what really matters to us, not what stories appear in the press.

“He has signed a contract and he is a very professional player.

“Since I have been at Madrid I have never heard him complain – not even when he was not in the first team and, like all players, wanted to play more minutes.

“Chelsea have not been in touch with us to make an offer for him, or in recent times for any of our players.”