Real Madrid Transfer News: Sergio Ramos '100%' Staying, David De Gea Latest

Real Madrid boss Rafa Benitez has confirmed there is no way he will sell centre-back Sergio Ramos to Manchester United.

Speaking during the Spanish side's pre-season tour of Australia, Benitez addressed reports that United continue to circle a player who, according to AS, wants to leave.

His comments were recorded by Steve Bates of the Mirror:

"

Sergio Ramos is our player and he is a key player for us. I would like to see him at the beginning of the season playing for us. I think he will be crucial for us during the season. I am 100 per cent. I insist it's clear for me and for the club that Sergio will be here.

I have a lot of respect for Louis van Gaal and football is a curious world, but Sergio Ramos will stay with us.

"

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These quotes come after AS reported that Madrid president Florentino Perez is due to hold crunch talks with Ramos during the team's forthcoming stay in China.

While it is suggested United have offered €60 million (approximately £42 million) for Ramos' services, Madrid are intent on keeping the stalwart at the heart of their defence.

Los Blancos midfielder Luka Modric wants his team-mate to remain at the Bernabeu, reported by Bates: "I hope he stays," said the Croatian. "He's a very important part of our team. He's our captain and leader both on and off the pitch."

Benitez also took the time to discuss the potential capture of United goalkeeper David De Gea, a transfer many would have expected the club to have wrapped up by now.

The Spanish boss remained noncommittal about the former Atletico Madrid star, per Bates: "De Gea is not our player so there is nothing to say about him. The market is still open and we will continue to do our job."

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Madrid recently replaced legendary stopper Iker Casillas with Espanyol's Kiko Casilla, who will battle it out with Keylor Navas for the No. 1 spot next season if De Gea doesn't arrive. Both are a step below De Gea, who played a key role in United returning to the Champions League at the first time of asking last season.

De Gea's decision not to sign a new contract with the Premier League club speaks volumes about his intentions. He could leave on a free next summer, but continuing speculation doesn't help any of the parties involved. United need a long-term No. 1, as do Madrid, and De Gea must be settled ahead of Euro 2016.

B/R UK's Andy Brassell recently discussed Madrid's actions in the transfer window so far:

There's no going back for Benitez now. Madrid supporters will instantly lose trust in him if Ramos is sold, a development that would place him under pressure before his first season with the club even begins. Although Raphael Varane is waiting to make a first-team impression, Benitez's organised, pragmatic style needs a leader of Ramos' ilk to prop up the side.

De Gea's switch to Real appears inevitable, but United are likely to continue dragging their heels. Benitez will be looking to get the better of United boss Louis van Gaal during the current window, if only to prove he has the assertiveness and authority to lead one of the world's most challenging clubs.