Manchester United: Sergio Ramos speculation 'won't effect Nicolas Otamendi move'

Nicolas Otamendi's agent has denied suggestions a potential move to Manchester United could be affected by the Premier League side's reported pursuit of Real Madrid defender Sergio Ramos.

The Valencia centre-half was heavily linked with a move to Old Trafford throughout June, with Spanish newspaper Super Deporte suggesting both United and Real Madrid have lodged offers for the player.

The defender's release clause of €50m (£36m) – which Valencia insist must be met in full if the player is to leave – has so far proven to be a stumbling block, although Otamendi remains determined to force the move.

However, United's reported interest in the Argentina international has been overshadowed by their pursuit of Real Madrid stalwart Ramos. According to Spanish daily AS, the defender has told Real he wants to leave the club following failed negotiations over a new deal, with former club president Ramon Calderon claiming the Spaniard will only leave the Bernabeu for United.

But according to Spanish radio station Cadena Cope, Otamendi's agent Eugenio Lopez has said the two transfers are not linked, claiming that before Ramos leaves Real Madrid, Otamendi will already be playing for a new club.

While Otamendi has also been linked with Manchester City, it was recently reported by Marca that the Argentine had been selected as a top priority to replace Ramos.

While there is uncertainty as to where exactly Otamendi will be playing next season, it seems certain it will not be at the Mestalla.

"Two months ago Nicolas already told [former Valencia president] Amadeo Salvo he wants to leave Valencia this summer," Lopez said on 25 May to Cadena Ser.

"If there's an offer from a club we consider a top club, and it benefits his family, Nico wants to go. There are many discussions with several clubs who want to sign Otamendi."