Athletic chase Ivan Campo

Basque superpower Athletic Bilbao are pressing Real Madrid to let go of central defender Ivan Campo.

The Rojiblancos, headed by new chief Jupp Heynckes, will open talks with Real Madrid about acquiring the services of Campo, who lost his place in the side last season to Aitor Karanka.

Real's Sports Manager Jorge Valdano announced last week that 27-year-old Campo would not be sold unless the club receives an offer greater than $US 11m.

Heynckes, meanwhile, is hoping to whittle down the asking price and land the player for $US 8m. The two clubs plan to meet this week to discuss the transfer but Real may back off seeing as Campo will be a ideal understudy for first team regulars Karanka and Fernando Hierro next season.