Manchester United have hit back at Real Madrid over David de Gea's failed transfer, claiming that the La Liga club's "clumsiness" prevented the move.
The 24-year-old was on the brink of sealing a transfer to Rafael Benitez's men in a deal worth £29.5m, with Keylor Navas moving in the opposite direction to Old Trafford.
However, the transfer broke down on deadline day due to the paperwork being late, with both clubs blaming each other for the move collapsing.
United said in a statement: "The facts speak for themselves and the Football Association are prepared to back our case that the documents were in on time.
"Real seem intent to move the focus away from their own clumsiness this summer. We all like to blame others but if you let one slip through your fingers into the back of the net, then ultimately the culpability is yours."
The Red Devils are reportedly ready to offer De Gea a new contract to remain at the club for the long-term future.
Simon Sinclair
