Agent: 'Rafael da Silva not leaving Manchester United'

The agent of Rafael da Silva has claimed that his client has no plans to leave Manchester United.

Recent reports in the full-back's native Brazil had suggested that the 23-year-old was keen to depart the Premier League champions for Corinthians.

However, Rafael's representative, Cassiano Pereira, has insisted that there is no substance to the speculation.

"I see it as being quite difficult [signing Rafael]. He's a starter, despite having been injured [and] nobody at Corinthians has talked to me," Pereira told reporters.

"Suddenly, there is interest. If there is, it's great. All third parties and players see Corinthians very positively, but it's hard, because he is happy at United. He is not even thinking about returning to Brazil."

Rafael joined United as a trainee in 2008 from Fluminense.