Reports from Spain claim Real Madrid will make a January move for the highly rated Lucas Silva from Brazilian side Cruzeiro.
Chelsea and Manchester United were both interested in the defensive midfielder, and were told they’d have to pay £12 million to secure his services.
But now Real Madrid look set to leave the two Premier League clubs disappointed, according to Spanish newspaper Marca.
The publication reports that Carlo Ancelotti is keen for negotiations over a move to begin as soon as possible.
Having sold Xabi Alonso in the summer, and with Sami Khedira set to leave the Bernabeu, Ancelotti thinks Silva could be an important addition to bolster his squad.
Manchester United scouts have been monitoring the 21 year old’s progress, and will have been impressed by his range of passing, reminiscent of Paul Scholes.
By Joseph Richardson
