Real Madrid have been given a "clear run" to try and sign Christian Eriksen after Barcelona reportedly dropped their interest in the Tottenham Hotspur midfielder.
The Danish star, rated as one of Europe's top play-makers, has again been very impressive for Spurs this season.
Real Madrid have been long-time admirers of the player though it is believed they would rather sign Eden Hazard from Chelsea.
The Independent reports that Real Madrid are willing to pay £100million for Eriksen and have already made inquiries about the player's availability. He is out of contract in 2020 - as is Hazard - but he is only 26; Hazard is two years older. Spurs would be reluctant to lose one of their best players in the year they move into their amazing new home but it could be a figure which Daniel Levy finds hard to refuse. Spurs have the capacity to increase Eriksen's weekly wage should that become an issue during negotiations.
Real Madrid are widely expected to change their manager in the summer and the new boss will be handed a huge transfer purse to revamp an ageing team. Santiago Solari enjoyed a good start to life as Real boss but recent results suggest he will not be given an extended run in the post.
Last summer, Barcelona seemed keen on Eriksen but they were willing to allow Philippe Coutinho the chance to establish himself in the team. Coutinho's performances this term have dipped while there has been a suggestion that Luis Suarez could also be leaving Camp Nou.