Maicon, the Brazil wing-back who impressed during the World Cup, will not be allowed to leave Inter Milan for Real Madrid.

The Inter defender, 29, was believed to be keen on a move to Spain - where he would be reunited with Jose Mourinho, who coached Inter to the Serie A and Champions League trophies last season.

"I can confirm that Maicon is not transferable. If Real Madrid really wanted him, they should have tried harder," said Massimo Moratti, the Inter president, speaking to Corriere dello Sport.

"We're not letting go of him, because he's a very strong player. He has a great understanding with our fans and it would have been very difficult to part company with him.

"Maybe Real Madrid didn't understand how important Maicon is. He is a real class player and always gives his all for the team. He has been a key player for Inter and he really didn't deserve to end up in a situation like this. Maicon will stay with us and he's more than happy to do so."