Real chief defends sale

Real Madrid president Florentino Perez has defended his club’s transfer policy after criticism following the sale of Angel di Maria to Manchester United.

Perez claimed Di Maria left Real no option but to sell him after the Argentina international had turned down an improved contract following his impressive 2013-14 campaign.

“We made the best offer that we could to Di Maria and he didn’t accept it,” Perez said. “Hence, we brought in James [Rodriguez], one of the best players at the World Cup and the Golden Boot award winner. Di Maria and all of those that have left have our gratitude and respect.

“A player that is under contract and leaves is because he wants to. Real has always respected contracts. Di Maria had financial requests that I considered legitimate but we couldn’t satisfy them.

“I reiterate that we made him the best possible offer.”