Mascherano in Real Madrid sights

Real Madrid are considering a January move for River Plate midfielder Javier Mascherano.

Only last week the Olympic gold medallist declared his preferred move to Europe would be to Real, over AC Milan and Arsenal.

Real are aware that Mascherano does not have a European passport, but have learned his Italian ancestry should see him gain qualifications relatively easily.

If coach Jose Antonio Camacho's campaign begins to wobble in the early part of the season, then Real will move for Mascherano ahead of the transfer window reopening over Christmas.