Real Madrid have confirmed their interest in Udinese midfielder Gaetano D'Agostino.

“It is a dream for every player to join Real Madrid,” D'Agostino told Onda Cero. “This is why I feel excited and nervous.

“I thank Real Madrid for their interest, I am happy, but there is nothing official. At this moment I prefer for my agent to speak, because I’m busy with Udinese’s pre-season training.”

The link is more than a mere newspaper rumour, as figures from both sides have confirmed there is a strong connection.

“I cannot deny he has the right characteristics for our team’s needs,” confessed Real Madrid director of sport Miguel Pardeza in Marca.

“D’Agostino is a concrete option and one that directors Pellegrini and Valdano are following with interest.”