Real Madrid to trump Man Utd, Arsenal for Mavuba

Real Madrid general manager Arrigo Sacchi is preparing a January bid for Bordeaux midfielder Rio Mavuba.

The 20 year-old is already established in the full French national team and is regarded as a long-term replacement for Arsenal captain Patrick Vieira.

Sacchi has made signing a defensive midfielder a priority for the winter market and after discarding the possible transfers of Edu (Arsenal) and Javier Mascherano (River Plate) has turned to Mavuba.

Arsenal and Manchester United are also chasing the youngster, but Real are confident they can clinch Mavuba's signature given the current financial constraints of both Premiership clubs.

Sacchi has drawn up a four-and-a-half year contract for Mavuba with a view to landing the defensive midfielder in January.