Real Madrid have option on Sevilla defender Ramos

Real Madrid remain favourites for Sevilla defender Sergio Ramos.

The Spanish international has been a long-term target for Manchester United, Arsenal, Juventus and Barcelona, since emerging 18 months ago from Sevilla's youth system.

But AS says Real have first refusal on Ramos, which was negotiated during the signing of striker Julio Baptista last month.

When Sevilla president Jose Maria del Nido indicates he's ready to sell Ramos, Real will have first crack at the versatile centre-half.