Luis Suarez must demand a transfer if he wants to leave Liverpool.
The Sunday Telegraph says the Merseyside club moved to reiterate a firm not-for-sale stance last night following further remarks from the striker about his desire to exit England.
Despite the robust nature of the club's insistence, there is a growing acceptance the 26-year-old's remarks are the opening salvo in efforts to engineer his transfer to La Liga.
Liverpool insist privately Suárez must submit a transfer request in writing - and his buyout clause valued around £40 million must also be triggered - before they will begin negotiations with any suitor.
Liverpool could hold out for more than that buyout clause, particularly if rival bidders start an auction for the South American and outbid Real Madrid.