Manchester United have reportedly demanded Sergio Ramos to publicly state that he wants to leave Real Madrid.
According to Marca, the war between Madrid and United over Ramos and David de Gea has taken another twist as the Red Devils are keen for the defender to force through negotiations.
United believe a public statement from the 29-year-old – the equivalent of a transfer request in the Premier League – would leave Florentino Perez with no option but to consider a sale, reinforced by the Madrid fans’ expected unwillingness to see their President keep a player against his wishes.
Louis van Gaal recently told reporters a deal for “Mr. Ramos is maybe in process”, while his opposite number Rafa Benitez has repeatedly made it clear that his captain will not be going anywhere.
Ramos has yet to speak about his future to the media out of respect for the club and their supporters, but the newspaper remains adamant he still wants out before the end of the summer transfer window.
Nonetheless, the stopper played both of Los Blancos’ International Champions Cup friendlies against Roma and Manchester City, although he was not present for the trophy ceremony in wake of the latter.
Perez is now set to join up with the Madrid squad for their tour of China, the patron seemingly ready to do all he can to convince Ramos – whom he signed from Sevilla in 2005 – into staying put.
