Real Madrid are keen on Chelsea midfielder Michael Ballack.

The People says Jose Mourinho is hoping to tempt Ballack to Real Madrid.

The German has his heart set on a move back to his homeland after Chelsea released him during the week.

But Mourinho, who took the ­midfielder to Chelsea in 2006, is ­surprised the Blues did not keep him for another year and will put together a lucrative 12-month contract offer of his own, with Ballack available on a free.

Real Madrid will seek assurances over his ankle before any talks begin.

Ballack, 33, was ruled out of the World Cup ­following a tackle by Kevin-Prince Boateng in last month's FA Cup Final, but is ­expected to be fit for the start of next season.

He joined Chelsea from Bayern Munich on a free transfer and a move back there could be on the cards while Schalke also want him.