Arsenal and Manchester United Scuppered in Pursuit of Mesut Ozil

Real Madrid's Mesut Ozil has landed a blow to Arsenal and Manchester United's transfer plans in the remainder of the summer window by committing his future to the La Liga giants.

Ozil has been the subject of speculation regarding his future in the Spanish capital since rumours gathered pace over Gareth Bale's proposed move from Tottenham Hotspur - which appears imminent.

Both Arsenal and United, who are understood to have been previously offered the German international, have been linked with a move for the 24 year old but Ozil is adamant his future remains at the Bernabeu.

"I feel good at Real Madrid," Ozil said at a photocall at the Bernabeu. "I have a contract until 2016. "For me, it's an honour to play here.

"I'm flattered that other teams are interested in me but my decision is firm: I'm staying here."

Ozil joined Real in the summer of 2010 from Werder Bremen and has played a significant role in the club reaching the Champions League semi-final in three successive seasons and prizing the La Liga title from Barcelona's grasp in the 2011/12 campaign.

But the news of his desire to stay at Madrid represents the latest blow to both Arsenal and United in a transfer window during which the pair have signed just one player each and missed out on a host of high-profile targets.

Arsenal have failed in their pursuit of the likes of Gonzalo Higuain, Luis Suarez and United forward Wayne Rooney, while David Moyes has seen offers rebuffed for Cesc Fabregas, Marouane Fellaini and Leighton Baines.

Arsene Wenger remains intent on bringing in news faces, a task all the more easier by the confirmation of the Gunners' place in the Champions League group phase for a 16<sup>th consecutive season.

United, who begin the season as third favourites to retain their title with both Chelsea and Manchester City having made significant additions this summer, are also in the hunt for new additions late in the window but have just five days to complete any prospective deals.