Inter Milan ahead of Real Madrid for Luisao

Inter Milan have reportedly secured an option on Benfica defender Luisao.

The Brazil international was being chased by Real Madrid, Deportivo La Coruna and Tottenham - which was confirmed by his agent before Christmas.

However, Portuguese press reports state that Inter supremo Massimo Moratti has struck an agreement with Benfica which will see Luisao move to Milan at the end of this season for £4 million.

Spanish sources insist Real Madrid are still in the hunt, where their Brazilian coach Vanderlei Luxemburgo has recommended Luisao's signing to GM Arrigo Sacchi.

Real are in the market to sign a new centre-half with concerns continuing over the long-term future of Jonathan Woodgate.