Manchester United have informed Tottenham they are wasting their time by pursuing a deal for unsettled forward Anthony Martial, according to the Manchester Evening News.
The regional newspaper report that the Red Devils have told Spurs to forget about signing the 22-year-old France international this summer, despite him being given the all clear to leave Old Trafford.
The MEN claim that United are determined to not sell Martial to a rival, with the club looking to sanction a move abroad for the jet-heeled forward, while also getting the best price.
The Mirror claim that United are looking for around £70million.
Good move for Tottenham Hotspur?
This would be a brilliant move for Spurs, who have had a disappointingly quiet summer so far.
The Lilywhites badly need an alternative striker to Harry Kane, and Martial fits the bill perfectly while also being able to provide cover in wide areas when needed.
The 22-year-old has shown during his time at United that he has the potential to go on and become a world-class player, and Spurs should be trying to bring in players of that calibre this summer.
The only issue here would be price, with a deal potentially not worth it if it exceeds the £50million mark by too much.
This is Futbol rating: 8/10
Likely to happen?
Unfortunately for Spurs, their efforts to sign Martial look to be in vain.
United have obviously resolved to not sell to a rival, and Tottenham are very much a rival after finishing third in the Premier League last season.
The likely outcome here is that Martial heads abroad, with Juventus previously linked with a swoop, and Tottenham may therefore have to look elsewhere as they look to strengthen in the coming days.
This is Futbol rating: 2/10