Real Madrid eyeing Villarreal ace Riquelme

Villarreal's Juan Roman Riquelme is being coveted as the player to orchestrate Real Madrid's midfield next season.
 
The Argentina international is seen as the playmaker capable of restoring the panache to a side that has flattered to deceive this season.

Ironically, Barcelona, the team they seek to upstage in La Liga, will also benefit financially if the move goes ahead. The Catalan club still owns a 25% stake in the player who has been instrumental in Villarreal's success in the Champions League this year.

Whilst Barcelona would make money from the deal, their president, Juan Laporta, will be mindful that their recent success is largely due to star striker and African Footballer of the Year Samuel Eto'o, who arrived at the club having been considered surplus to requirements at arch-rivals Madrid.