Real Madrid in Man Utd talks over Van Nistelrooy

Real Madrid are stepping up their bid for Manchester United striker Ruud van Nistelrooy.

Marca says officials from both clubs met last week and are close to agreeing a fee for the Dutch striker.

United have repeatedly insisted he is not for sale and Van Nistelrooy has said he is happy at Old Trafford.

But Real Madrid president Florentino Perez has made no secret of his desire to sign the world's top players, including Van Nistelrooy.

And the possible capture of the Holland international would be in keeping with the club's current policy of adding a new galactico to the line-up each summer.