Real Madrid have cleared Raul to speak with Villarreal.

The Castilla coach is a top target for Villarreal after the sacking of Quique Setien this week.

It had been suggested Raul wouldn't be tempted, but Marca says Real have granted him permission to speak with Villarreal.

Over the past year, Raul has rejected interest from Eintracht Frankfurt, Schalke 04, Espanyol and Leeds.

Raul has now informed Real Madrid that he's interested in the move and management have allowed him to enter talks with the Yellow Submarine today.