Manchester City have reportedly informed Real Madrid that they will not be able to sign Raheem Sterling with an offer of £70m plus Gareth Bale.
At the start of this week, it was suggested that Real were prepared to put together such a proposal in order to secure the signature of the England international, as well as getting Bale off their wage bill.
However, according to the Daily Star, City officials have described the offer as "absurd", indicating that Real are not close to tempting them into a big-money transfer.
While Sterling possesses a contract until the end of the 2022-23 campaign, Real appear intent on signing the winger before the start of next season.
The 24-year-old is likely to cost well in excess of Real's alleged opening bid, however, while City are unexpected to entertain bringing in Bale due to his age, wage demands and injury record.
Both Los Blancos and the 29-year-old are said to be ready to part ways in the January transfer window.
Darren Plant
