Athletic Bilbao are bracing themselves for a bid from Real Madrid for midfielder Javi Martinez.

Bilbao's board know Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho is a big fan of the Spain World Cup midfielder and expect an offer to arrive in the coming weeks.

Martinez is rated at €30 million by Bilbao, though the board is unlikely to keep hold of the player against his will. Instead, they will seek to sell for the highest price and invest in a replacement midfield signing.

Manchester City's swoop for Barcelona midfielder Yaya Toure has ended their interest in Martinez.