Florentino Perez has asserted Real Madrid’s determination to keep hold of Gonzalo Higuain and says that there has been no offer from Arsenal yet.
The Argentine striker was reported last week as on the verge of completing a move this summer to the Gunners, with only an ‘affirmative answer’ from Madrid stalling a €27m deal.
However, his President has followed up reports that Carlo Ancelotti will ask him to stay at the club, by openly stating Los Blancos’ intention not to lose him.
“We do not want him to leave,” Perez revealed in an interview with Univision released today.
“Besides, I can assure you that Arsenal have yet to come here nor make any offer, of €10m, €27m or anything.
“There is no offer, no-one has come forward to offer anything.”
Speculation this summer also surrounds Cristiano Ronaldo, but the President made clear there is a determination from both the player and the club for him to stay.
“Among those that want to retire at Real Madrid, there is Cristiano Ronaldo. And Real Madrid wants him to retire here.
“There have been no contract negotiations as he has been on vacation. I’ve said many times – I am absolutely sure that Cristiano will retire in Madrid, but because he wants to retire here.
“Just as Zidane retired here and so too have so many other wonderful players.”
Madrid will be working under a new Coach this season, with Carlo Ancelotti having replaced Jose Mourinho in the hotseat.
“He has gone from being a club Coach to an international Coach. He is demanding, with a great track record, and two European Cups.
“This was the third attempt I made to try and sign him and we have managed it.”
Ancelotti previously worked at Milan with Madrid’s current forgotten man Ricky Kaka.
“He had a knee injury before coming to Madrid, then Ozil arrived and it has been difficult for the player.
“Ancelotti knows him well and the player has renewed his ambition.”
