Real Madrid are chasing unsettled Manchester City midfielder Nigel de Jong.

The Daily Star Sunday says De Jong has emerged as a shock £20million target for Real Madrid.

Real boss Jose Mourinho sent scouts to watch the Dutch midfield hardman in Manchester City's recent Champions League game in Spain against Villarreal.

De Jong, 26, was disappointed when talks on a new contract at the Etihad Stadium stalled in the summer.

Negotiations on a new four-year deal are due to resume in the new year, with a view to De Jong signing an improved contract at the end of the season.

But Real are now watching De Jong, a £17m signing from Hamburg.