Real Madrid have joined Barcelona in their interest for Athletic Bilbao defender Aymeric Laporte.

Laporte has been a long-term target for Barca, where former Bilbao coach Ernesto Valverde is a big fan of the young centre-half.

However, with Real boss Zinedine Zidane worried about his centre-half options, Laporte has been offered by his scouts.

Zidane is eager to find a new defender in January after failing to be convinced by youngster Jesus Vallego and he has Laporte on his shopping list.

Interestingly, at Barca, along with Valverde, Laporte's arrival is also being backed by Leo Messi.