Real Madrid line-up Leeds ace Dacourt as Makelele replacement

Real Madrid have joined the race for Leeds United midfielder Olivier Dacourt.

The French international has long been linked with a January move to Italy, however his agent indicated last week that he wasn't interested in a switch to the Serie A.

Real are lining up Dacourt as a replacement for Claude Makelele, who is expected to quit the Spanish Liga at the end of the season.

Leeds chairman Peter Ridsdale admitted over the weekend that the club would be looking to sell at least six of its first team squad when the transfer window opens in the New Year.