Real Madrid have moved ahead of Barcelona in the battle for Sao Paulo midfielder Lucas.

Mediaset says Real and Barcelona are battling for the 19 year-old, but the Merengues have made the first major move by holding talks with the midfielder's agent, Wagner Ribeiro.

Real are also in contact with Sao Paulo and been informed they can sign Lucas for €30 million.

For the moment, Barca have been left in Real's dust, though are expected to register their interest formally in the coming days.