Real Madrid are finalising the signing of Cadiz midfielder Fran Rivera.

Competition for the player's signature had been stiff with Barcelona, Arsenal, Sevilla, Real Betis and Malaga all interested in his services.

He is the first youth player to leave Cadiz on such a deal since Suso left for Liverpool in September 2010.

The Barbate native particularly stood out in the first half of the campaign for his performances in Cadiz's youth side.

Rivera, who turned 17 on December 31, captains the Andalusian national side and opted for Real even after hearing out proposals from Barcelona and Arsenal, says Marca.