Real Madrid are ready to pull the trigger on a bid for Real Sociedad midfielder Asier Illarramendi.

The race for Illarramendi is heating up this week after the end of the U21 European Championships.

Punto Pelota says Real chiefs are actively discussing making an offer for the defensive midfielder, who is also the subject of serious interest from Arsenal.

The stumbling block could be Real president Jokin Aperribay, who will be reluctant to part with a fans' favourite ahead of next year's election.