Rafael Benitez is "100 per cent" sure Sergio Ramos will stay at Real Madrid despite interest from Manchester United.
United are willing to exchange goalkeeper David de Gea for Ramos, who is reportedly unhappy about the salary he has been offered as part of a new deal at the Bernabeu.
Ramos and Madrid are yet to resolve their differences, but Benitez insists the defender will remain at Real Madrid.
"I have a lot of respect for (United manager) Louis van Gaal, but Sergio will be staying with us," the Real Madrid manager said at a press conference in Australia prior to the team's friendly against Manchester City.
"He is our player, our captain. I would like to see him (at the club) at the beginning of the season, because he's a key player for us."
When asked whether he was absolutely certain the centre-half would stay, Benitez said: "For me, 100 per cent.
"I insist that it is clear for me and the club, Sergio will be here. Football is a curious world, but Ramos will be staying."
Ramos has won a host of honours - including the Champions League - since joining Real Madrid from Sevilla 10 years ago.
The 29-year-old has been appointed club captain this summer following the exit of long-serving goalkeeper Iker Casillas, who has joined Porto on a two-year deal.
Source: PA
