The former Liverpool midfielder, who took over at the Bernabeu this summer from Carlo Ancelotti, has identified the Argentina international as the man he wants to be the heartbeat of his midfield, and the club are now preparing a €100m (£86m) offer for him.

Real Madrid are in contact with one of Liverpool’s best players, according to the Spanish media, as Markus Babbel urges the Anfield star to snub a move to the Santiago Bernabeu and stay part of Arne Slot’s side.