Sergio Ramos to Manchester United: Spaniard named Real Madrid captain for next season

United have been linked with a move for Ramos all summer

Sergio Ramos has gone on Real's pre-season tour of Australia (twitter.com/realmadrid)

Manchester United appear to have been struck another blow in their pursuit of Sergio Ramos, after the Spanish defender was named Real Madrid captain for next season, according to reports in Spain.

Newspaper Marca state that Ramos, 29, has taken over from Iker Casillas, who will leave the club for Porto this week. However, there is yet to be an official statement from Real Madrid, for whom Ramos acted as vice-captain last season.

The centre-back was also named in Rafa Benitez's squad that travelled to Australia and China for the club's pre-season tour.

Manchester United have been linked to Ramos all summer. The Spanish centre-back was unhappy with club president Florentino Perez after failing to be offered a better contract.

Louis van Gaal's team are set to travel to the US for their pre-season tour on Monday evening, meaning any potential deal between the two clubs could have to wait until after they both return to Europe in early August.

However, Real Madrid are still thought to be keen on goalkeeper David De Gea and United do not want to sell him without a big fee or Ramos in return.