Real Madrid have emphatically denied they are interested in signing David Beckham from Manchester United.

Speculation linking Beckham with a switch from Manchester United to the European champions has intensified in recent weeks.

In a statement released on the club’s website, they said: ‘Surrounding the speculation regarding the supposed interest from Real Madrid in signing David Beckham, the club wishes to communicate that:

‘1. No contact has existed between Real Madrid and Manchester United on this issue.

‘2. Neither directly or indirectly has there been any contact between Real Madrid and Mr Beckham

‘3. Despite the speculation surrounding this issue, Madrid have no intention of negotiating the transfer of Mr Beckham.

‘4. Against the general policy of the club which never uses official sources to reject rumours. This press release has been issued with the objective of putting an end to the growing speculation which has circulated without any foundation linking Mr Beckham with Real Madrid.

‘5. On top of the recent rumours, the unconditional friendly relationship between both clubs and the respect due for Mr Beckham still remains.’

Earlier Madrid’s president Florentino Perez had been adamantthat his club were interested in signing Beckham.

“Nobody at Real Madrid has ever spoken about Beckham: and I do not want to say anything more about this matter myself,” Perez said.

United chief executive Peter Kenyon expressed his delight at Perez’s remarks.

“I am delighted that Senor Perez has confirmed this in such an emphatic manner,” said Kenyon, “but, anyway, we at Manchester United never had any intention of selling him. The speculation about David has reached new heights because he’s had a phenomenal season but this had almost been overshadowing everything we’ve achieved.

“David has stated himself that he doesn’t want to go anywhere but we have always been reluctant to make any public statements of any sort about the make-up of our team for next season.

“I’m also assured by David’s people that they don’t want him to leave Manchester United. Everyone at Old Trafford will be grateful to have this confirmed in such a manner by Real Madrid.”