Zanetti excited at Real link

Inter Milan defender Javier Zanetti's agent spoke on Monday about the player's excitement at the possibility of joining Real Madrid.

Zanetti looks set to replace Chelsea-bound Geremi Fotso at right-back, while stand-in
defender Michel Salgado could also be ready for a change of scenery.

Zanetti's agent, Jorge Oliva said: "I met Jorge Valdano in a Madrid hotel about 15 days ago. He told me that Real were interested in Javier and we discussed various themes including the player's personality and his situation at Inter. We have yet to close the deal and nothing has surfaced since that meeting, but I have informed Real that Javier would be thrilled to join them next season."

Zanetti is top of the Real wanted list as a major upgrade at right-back following Deportivo's refusal to negotiate with the Madrilenos over the signing of Manuel Pablo.

Oliva confirmed that Zanetti has received formal offers from Lazio, Manchester United and Arsenal but his dream would be to sign for the Madrid-based club and play alongside Luis Figo, Roberto Carlos, Raul and hopefully Zinedine Zidane.