Tottenham midfielder Christian Eriksen called Ole Gunnar Solskjaer personally to turn down Manchester United's offer.

AS says the Dane made the gesture yesterday, making clear to the United manager that he appreciated the proposal, but wouldn't be taking it up. The opinion of his closest friends was decisive in his choice.

A five-year contract had been tabled by United to Eriksen, far greater than his current Spurs salary.

United, who were ready to negotiate with Tottenham, has now given up signing the midfielder.

For his part, Eriksen still hopes to move to Real Madrid and has learned from United directors that the Spanish giants are struggling to come up with the cash to sign Paul Pogba.