Real Madrid are pressing ahead with plans to sign Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard. The Daily Mail says the Anfield hierarchy fear that their captain's frustration with life under boss Rafa Benitez will see him leave if the right offer comes in.

Jose Mourinho is ready to take advantage by sanctioning a £25million move when he takes over at the Bernabeu next week.

Gerrard is on a short list of two to add energy and creativity to a midfield that hardly bore comparison to that of La Liga champions Barcelona this season.

Reports in Spain say the other player in their sights is Roma captain Daniele de Rossi, but the Italy international would cost in excess of £40m and has previously been reluctant to leave his hometown team.

Manchester City made their own tentative interest but realise Gerrard will not go to Eastlands despite not having to uproot his family.