PSV's Van Bommel, Mascherano top of Real Madrid list

PSV Eindhoven midfielder Mark van Bommel and River Plate youngster Javier Mascherano are among the favourites to be signed by Real Madrid in January.

New Real coach Mariano Garcia Remon has received approval from president Florentino Perez that a new midfielder in the Patrick Vieira mould will be signed when the winter market opens.

Van Bommel claimed last month to have been in contact with Real Madrid, while River Plate officials have also indicated to have held serious talks with Real about Mascherano's future.