Manchester United's chances of landing former Arsenal midfielder Cesc Fabregas were dealt a huge blow with Barcelona calling the Spanish international "non transferable."
United made an official bid for Fabregas earlier this week with chief executive Ed Woodward flying in from United's preseason tour to try and manufacture a deal.
However, Fabregas has always maintained his desire to remain at Barcelona and the Spanish giants categorically said the midfielder would not be sold.
"Barcelona can assure you we will not entertain any offers for Cesc," vice-president Josep Maria Bartomeu told Sport. "He is non-transferable."
United manager David Moyes, speaking to reporters ahead of the club's preseason friendly against A-League All Stars on Saturday, had earlier expressed his hope of completing a move for Fabregas.
"The chief exec has been dealing with it just now and I am in contact with him," he said.
"I'll hopefully know a little more in the next day or so. I may have a bit more information in the next day or so about how it's going."
Moyes also said the club is working hard on transfers, with the likes of Gareth Bale and Luka Modric also being linked with the club.
"As far as players we're looking to bring in, we're trying very hard to make some additions to the squad," he added.
"Hopefully there'll be some good news in the not too distant future."
The United boss, though, was adamant about the club's stance on Wayne Rooney, insisting the player is not for sale.
"The club's position hasn't changed on Wayne Rooney," he said. "There's no change."
Moyes was glad to have Robin Van Persie back in the squad with the Dutchman flying in to Australia to join up with his teammates after he was given an extended holiday.
"I got to see him this week for the first time," Moyes said. "You can see his ability in the control, touch and awareness he has shown, just in the small games we have played and bits of the finishing he has done this week.
"I have been impressed by his professionalism as well.
"We have overtrained him this week to try and make sure we build up his fitness but he has never complained about a thing."