Real Madrid are ready to splash out on Espanyol defender Mario Hermoso.

Marca says Luis Enrique has included Hermoso in the next Spain squad list, so it's no wonder that Real Madrid are interested in his services and intend to exercise their option on him in January.

Los Blancos can purchase the player for €7.5m, and because they are still awaiting a fully fit Jesus Vallejo, and can see just what competition Hermoso would bring, it appears to be a deal that will be executed.

Espanyol don't want to sell because Hermoso is a key player, but owner, Chen Yansheng, needs money to balance the accounts.