Real Madrid's Valdano: Samuel, Ajax's Chivu too rich for us

Real Madrid sports chief Jorge Valdano has admitted his interest in AS Roma defender Walter Samuel and Ajax's Cristian Chivu.

However, the Real supremo says their price-tag may be too rich when the summer transfer market opens.

Valdano said: "Who would we sign? Samuel? Chivu? They are both great players, but their prices probably rule us out."

"In any case, the club's young players will always have first option on making the step up to the first team."

Valdano also rubbished reports that Barcelona could sign striker Javier Portillo in the summer.

"Portillo has a good contract and when the club feels the need to improve it, we will speak with him."

"It's not something that concerns us."