Real Madrid defenders talk up qualities of transfer target Llorente

Real Madrid defenders gave Athletic Bilbao striker Fernando Llorente the thumbs up after Saturday's clash.

Llorente is being linked with Real and impressed Pepe and Ricardo Carvalho during Athletic's 5-1 defeat.

Carvalho said: "He is very strong. Physically, especially, but also plays well with the ball at his feet. For us, he was difficult because he was always testing us physically."

"He is a centre-forward, strong in the air, he knows how to use his body and move the ball."

Pepe added: "He is very quick and when the ball comes in from the wings, he's dangerous."

"Look, every player who is doing well is going to be linked with Madrid. I can only focus on my game and try to do well on the pitch."