Juventus monitor Real Madrid bid for Alex

Juventus are monitoring Alex's situation at Brazilian club Santos.

The 21 year-old centre-half is the subject of a £5 million offer from Real Madrid, which is still being considered by Santos directors.

AC Milan are also confirmed suitors, with high-ranking pair Cesare Maldini and Leonardo having both travelled to Brazil this season to watch Alex in action.

Juve chief Luciano Moggi has penciled Alex on his long-list of defensive transfer targets, which also include Parma duo Daniele Bonera and Matteo Ferrari, plus Bayer Leverkusen's Lucio.

Alex is fast emerging as one of the hottest available talents in the South American transfer market.