Rivera to make Rayo switch

Real Madrid midfielder Albert Rivera could be heading across the capital to neighbouring Rayo Vallecano according to reports in Spain today.

Rayo, who are struggling at the foot of the table, are keen to add Rivera to their squad as a temporary replacement for injured stars Luis Cembranos and José María Quevedo.

23-year-old Rivera, who is not a regular feature with Real, has been listed for league and Champions League games as a precaution in case the first team squad is hit by massive injury problems. Under normal circumstances, Rayo would have to wait until the winter transfer markets begin in December to hire any listed player. But due to the fact that Cembranos will be out of the game for eight months, they are eligible to find a replacement - even one who is already on another club's squad list for domestic matches.

Rayo may try to arrange with Real that Rivera comes to Vallecas on loan until the end of the season.