Real Madrid chief Baldini takes over Diarra talks

Franco Baldini has taken over negotiations for Real Madrid in their pursuit of Olympique Lyon midfielder Mahamadou Diarra.
 
AS says Baldini made a low-key approach for the Mali star on Tuesday, enjoying positive talks with his agent, Frederic Guerra, though finding Lyon officials less accommodating.

Baldini informed Lyon that Real were prepared to part with ?17 million for Diarra, though the French giants are insisting on nearer ?22 million before they sit down and discuss terms seriously.

The Italian's involvement in negotiations has freed up Real sports chief Predrag Mijatovic to travel to London this week for talks with Arsenal over a deal for Jose Reyes.

Baldini's trip to France was to open up dialogue with Lyon and Guerra. The Italian is confident in the early days of next week formal negotiations between the clubs will begin.