Nice have joined the battle for Real Madrid striker Mariano Diaz.

The young forward is expected to leave Real on-loan next month - on recommendation of coach Zinedine Zidane.

Espanyol have been favourites to land Mariano, but French competition is increasing in the 23 year-old.

Olympique Marseille chief Andoni Zubizarreta has already registered their interest - and now have been joined by Nice.

Nice coach Lucien Favre is seeking a strike-partner for Mario Balotelli and Mariano fits the bill.