Real Madrid Interested in Moussa Sissoko

Real Madrid could join Everton and Juventus in the race for Moussa Sissoko’s signature – and may even be willing to allow Newcastle United to take a player in exchange for the Frenchman.

Reports in Spain claim that Real president Florentino Perez is angered by losing out to Barcelona in the pursuit of Andre Gomes and will “counter-attack” by attempting to lure Sissoko to the Bernabeu.

Spanish publication Sport suggest that, although Real would have been willing to pay more than £30m for Valencia’s Gomes, he is not minded to match Newcastle’s £35m asking price for Sissoko.

Instead, the Champions League holders would look to negotiate a “figure somewhat lower” for the French international, but could potentially offer a player to Newcastle as part of any deal – either on a loan or permanent basis.

Magpies boss Rafa Benitez was sacked as Real manager by Perez at the beginning of the year and -although the pair did not part on the best terms – their past relationship could prove crucial in striking up a deal, if the Spanish giants do firm up their reported interest.

With Georginio Wijnaldum heading to Liverpool in a £25m deal, Sissoko – who starred for France in the Euro 2016 final, despite their narrow loss to Portugal – is now widely expected to follow the Dutchman out of the exit door at St James’ Park.

Everton are believed to hold an interest in Sissoko, as are Juventus, who could move for the 26-year-old if Paul Pogba completes a world-record transfer back to Manchester United.

But Real’s reported interest could really excite Sissoko, who is desperate to join to a Champions League side.

The Frenchman is unlikely to be heading to Arsenal, however, even though he described the Gunners as a “beautiful” club earlier this summer.

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger has told the Gunners’ official website that he believes his squad is now “solid in midfield”, even though three players have left the Emirates this summer.