Sergio Ramos to Manchester United: Real Madrid defender 'wants' Old Trafford switch

United have made an official straight bid for the player

Real Madrid defender Sergio Ramos (GETTY IMAGES)

Sergio Ramos has unequivocally told Real Madrid that he wants to join Manchester United this summer, it's being widely reported this morning.

The Independent understands that the Spain international is the subject of a straight bid from Manchester United, with the exact figure ranging from between £28.3m and £35m.

The reports also confirm this publication's understanding that Ramos has told Real Madrid to consider offers for his services and that he be allowed to leave the Bernabeu.

There have been suggestions that Manchester City could enter the race for the Spain international, however Sky Sports are reporting that Ramos is only interested in a move to Old Trafford.

The situation has progressed rapidly from a point where there was uncertainty if Ramos was simply posturing for an improved contract at the Bernabeu where he has two years to run on his current deal.

The Spanish club’s chairman Florentino Perez is known to have attempted to make a personal plea to the defender to dismiss thoughts of a move to Manchester in a phone call, however he was rebuffed by Ramos. Perez was reported to have said words to the effect of: ‘Go on holiday and we'll talk about it when you get back.’ The player is now holidaying in the United States.

United are nowhere near the £71m figure Madrid are letting it be known that they want for Ramos. Possibly in retaliation at Real Madrid's high valuation, United have insisted they want £32.6m for Real Madrid target David De Gea.

It is likely that Madrid’s interest in signing the goalkeeper may form part of future discussions over Ramos.