World Cup-winning midfielder Toni Kroos has emerged as a big-money target for both Manchester United and Chelsea.
The Germany international has featured semi-regularly for Real Madrid this season under Rafa Benitez, but could be allowed to leave by new boss Zinedine Zidane.
Kroos joined the Spanish club from Bayern Munich in 2014, having won the 2013 Champions League, and has played more than 50 times in La Liga.
The Guardian report that Chelsea have begun speaking with the 26-year-old’s representatives over a potential £40m move.
Meanwhile, Manchester United are also believed to be interested, with Kroos joining Saúl Niguez on their shortlist of midfield targets.
According to the Daily Star, United and Liverpool are both keen on the player, but Chelsea are thought to be leading the race.
As Irish football fans are aware, give Kroos too much space and he can do serious damage:
