Real Madrid have denied that they have made a bid for Brazilian star Neymar.

Ever since joining Paris Saint Germain from Barcelona in a controversial world record deal last summer, he has been linked with Real.

It has been claimed that Real could not sign him direct from their rivals Barca, but they always had a plan to take him to the Spanish capital.

Spanish national TV claimed earlier this week that Real had indeed made a move worth over £200million to land the 26-year-old.

However, Real have been quick to deny that a bid has been launched.

An official statement on their website read: “Given the information tonight by TVE concerning a supposed offer from Real Madrid to PSG and the player Neymar, Real Madrid can confirm the information is completely false and have not made any offer to PSG or the player.

“Real Madrid is surprised that the Spanish television has broadcasted absolutely false information without anyone from the club being contacted to comment on the alleged information that could easily have been denied.”

The Bookmakers have long suspected that Real were keen and the odds have never been huge, however, the odds are very much on Neymar staying with PaddyPower making him 1/5 to remain at PSG and 5/2 to join Real.

Spokesman Paddy Power said: “In a way as dramatic as his rolling on the floor, Real Madrid have officially denied that they want Neymar.

“Which probably means the total opposite. Watch this space.”