Real Madrid drop talks for Sociedad's Xabi

Real Madrid have pulled out of talks with Real Sociedad over midfielder Xabi Alonso.

Sociedad's asking price for the 22 year-old was deemed far too rich by Real Madrid president Florentino Perez, particularly with situation surrounding AS Roma's Emerson still unresolved.

Emerson remains Real's preferred midfield target, while Arsenal captain Patrick Vieira is also on the agenda.

Sociedad are expected to encourage Premiership clubs Liverpool and Tottenham to bid for Xabi as they need to sell the midfielder after signing Mike Arteta from Rangers.