The failure to convince Michael Ballack to leave Chelsea has raised Baptista's chances of surviving the axe at Real, with Schuster now considering him for an attacking midfielder's role behind the strikers.

Schuster has already told Real sports chief Pedja Mijatovic he won't accept the Brazilian sold without a replacement having already been signed. The German is delighted with Baptista's attitude and work ethic in training since his return from the Copa America.

Baptista's minders, meanwhile, are convinced that Real are looking for a buyer for the former Arsenal player as he is one of the few fringe players capable of raking in a significant fee.