Villarreal coach Manuel Pellegrini remains in Real Madrid's sights.
Florentino Perez has earmarked AC Milan boss Carlo Ancelotti as his next coach - should he win Real's presidential elections this summer.
But Real fans are against the Italian's appointment, which could lead to Perez considering alternatives.
Pellegrini is a favourite of Jorge Valdano, who will join Perez's football staff, and his style of coaching would be an ideal fit for Real.