Manchester United Transfer News: James Rodriguez Will Shun United for Porto

Manchester United transfer target James Rodriguez will turn his back on a possible move to Old Trafford in order to remain with his current club, FC Porto.

Rodriguez was strongly linked to the Red Devils over the summer transfer window and was viewed as another attacking addition to United's midfield—potentially a long-term replacement for Nani, should his contract negotiations fail.

The £25 million-rated Colombian starlet was set to be the subject of a Manchester United bid, but has confirmed via Goal that he will remain with his current club next season.

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"I want to stay here, Porto are a big club and they are my present.  My only thought is playing for Porto and I am also thinking about what is best for the club..."

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Rodriguez's indication that he will stay at the Estadio do Dragao next season is not new—the midfielder first highlighted a potential move to Old Trafford was not going to transpire earlier in the week, but this is his strongest statement to date.

The 20-year-old stated earlier, via O Jogo (h/t Goal), that:

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"I want to stay with Porto. I am happy and very pleased to be able to continue with the club. I am looking ahead to next season and have a lot of expectations. I will also have more duties and responsibilities next season.

"When the news came out about Manchester United, I knew nothing about it. I want to win more titles here..."

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Rodriguez has already made five appearances for his country and helped Porto retain their Premeira Liga title last season.

Two Daily Mirror reports claim Manchester United are believed to be pursuing Joao Moutinho and Lucas Moura as other possible additions in midfield—both youngsters in similar price range as Rodriguez.

Rodriguez would have been an excellent signing for Sir Alex Ferguson, but it's clear that he isn't coming to Manchester United any time soon and certainly not over the summer transfer window.

Maybe we can finally put this rumor to bed.

Is James Rodriguez not moving to Manchester United a big loss for the club?

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