Real boost for Zanetti move

Internazionale defender Javier Zanetti is closer than ever to joining Real Madrid, and is ready to sign a four-year deal.

The Argentinean star and skipper at the San Siro is keen to leave Serie A and he could well become the Spanish champions’ first signing of the year.

Sources are claiming that talks between Zanetti's agent and Real Madrid are at an advanced stage and the deal could be closed in the next few days.

The Bernabeu club are ready to hand over $US 20million for the player’s move to Real, and he will get around $US 2.8million a year over the four years.

Real Madrid are expected to offload defenders Michel Salgado and possibly Geremi Fotso to recover at least part of the transfer money spent on Zanetti.