Zaragoza swoop for Solari

Copa del Rey holders Zaragoza have Real Madrid's Argentinian midfielder Santiago Solari in mind to reinforce their squad for next season.

Zaragoza coach Txetxu Rojo has been in touch with Real to ask about the player's availability and sports manager Jorge Valdano's presence with the squad in Nyon has raised speculation about a possible transfer or loan of the Argentine ace.

Real must find outlets for seven squad members before they can re-enter the transfer markets themselves - and allowing Solari to leave may not be viewed as a bad thing considering that the club is overbooked with left-footed players.

Solari however, is determined to triumph at Real and has stated that his wish is to carry on playing with the Merengues even if it means spending much of the season on the bench.

Solari, who signed for Real from neighbours Atletico Madrid last summer, is under contract at Real until June 2003.