Real Madrid are ready to make Werder Bremen midfield star Diego their prime transfer target for next season.

Already endorsed by Real coach Bernd Schuster, Diego's performance on Tuesday night at the Santiago Bernabeu convinced directors that the German's enthusiasm is not misplaced. Real sports chiefs Pedja Mijatovic and Miguel Angel Portugal, along with president Ramon Calderon, have already discussed a future bid for Diego in the last 24 hours.

"If the price is reasonable, we will sign him for next season," a Real insider told AS. Werder are expected to seek between £15-17 million for the Brazil international.