Real linked with Nesta bid

Former Italian champions Lazio have received another bid from Real Madrid for their highly-rated defender Alessandro Nesta.

Reports from Italy are suggesting that Lazio are ready to sell the 28-year-old to finance a bid for Valencia playmaker and captain Gaizka Mendieta, also a target of Real, but Lazio president Sergio Cragnotti said: "At the age of 28 Nesta will be worth over $US 75million."

"Why should I wait for him to get towards the end of his career before selling him? When we decided not to sell Giuseppe Signori at the peak of his career we only lost a lot of money. If we have to we’ll sell Nesta."

Real Madrid are refusing to confirm any contact for Nesta, who will be sure to attract attention from a host of top club sides should Lazio opt to cash in on the Italian international star.