The newspaper Marca claims Real Madrid are trying to steal a march on Barcelona for the signature of Arsenal midfielder Cesc Fabregas. Madrid's number-one transfer target is believed to be Liverpool's Steven Gerrard, but are looking at alternatives in case they fail to land the England international.
Barcelona have already begun talks with the North London club, but have so far seen a £29m offer rejected.
Marca indicates that Madrid will only move for Fabregas if Gerrard stays at Anfield, as new boss Jose Mourinho is understood to prefer the Liverpool captain.
