Real Madrid striker Gonzalo Higuain has seen new contract talks placed on the backburner. Despite Arsenal and Juventus circling, Real have decided to suspend negotiations until later next month, says AS. Talks won't resume until after the second-leg of their Champions League tie with Lyon.

Real's opening offer of €2.5 million-a-year plus bonuses remains on the table, but so far Higuain has refused to bite.

Club insiders insist there's no reason to panic as "Pipita is contracted with us until 2013". However, the Argie remains among the lowest paid first teamers at the club.