Real Madrid are keeping tabs on River Plate star Augusto Fernandez.

The midfielder will gain his Spanish passport in November and DiarioSport says Real intend to make a major offer for him in January.

Real had scouts watch Fernandez in action last week against Estudiantes.

The midfielder is aware of Real's interest and said: "Spanish football is the one that I like most. And I like Madrid a lot.... I would say too much. Without a doubt, I'm proud that Real Madrid has paid attention to me."