Benfica deny Witsel to Real reports

Benfica have issued a statement denying that they have received any offers for midfielder Axel Witsel. 

 The Belgium star was being courted by Spanish champions Real Madrid, who reportedly tabled a considerable bid for the 23-year-old's services.

 However, the Portuguese club have since posted on their official website that no proposal for Witsel has been forthcoming, and his release clause continues to stand at 40 million euros.

 "In light of the news published on Saturday in several newspapers, Benfica can clarify that it has received no proposal for the player Axel Witsel to date, and that he has a release clause in his contract," the statement read.

 Despite the statement, Portuguese daily A Bola claims the former Standard Liege man is keen on making the move to the Bernabeu, and talks over a possible transfer may commence in the coming weeks.

 Meanwhile, Benfica have also clarified their stance on Chievo defender Boukary Drame.

 The Senegal left-back joined the Flying Donkeys last season, and developed into an important player under Domenico Di Carlo.

 "The news about the interest in Drame is pure fiction and he is not en route to Benfica," he said.

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