Real Madrid coach Pellegrini wants Velez Sarsfield's Otamendi

Real Madrid are continuing talks with Velez Sarsfield for defender Nicolas Otamendi.

Marca says Otamendi could arrive as a direct replacement for Ezequiel Garay, who is agitating for a move to Juventus.

Otamendi has broken into Diego Maradona's Argentina squad and Real GM Jorge Valdano is keen to do business for around £10 million.

Real coach Manuel Pellegrini rates Otamendi highly, particularly with his leg speed, which the current rearguard lacks.