Real Madrid identify Christian Eriksen and Paul Pogba alternative before transfer deadline

Real have been actively re-building their squad this summer after a torrid La Liga campaign.

They have spent nearly £300million on new recruits such as Eden Hazard, Luka Jovic, Eder Militao and Ferland Mendy in a bid to catch Barcelona.

But they’re still looking for a major midfield recruit to bolster their options.

Pogba’s future at Manchester United remains up in the air with constant speculation linking him with a move to La Liga.

Tottenham also face an anxious wait for the end of the European transfer window to see whether or not they can hold on to Eriksen.

However, both Premier League have received a major boost with just over a week remaining of the transfer window.

According to Catalan newspaper Mundo Deportivo, Real have turned their attention to Espanyol’s Marc Roca.

The report starts Zinedine Zidane are strongly considering making a move over the next few days.

Espanyol are not prepared to accept any bid lower than their asking price of £37million, but that is still far cheaper than what Real would have to fork out for Pogba or Eriksen.

However, the report adds that Real aren’t willing to meet Espanyol’s full valuation.

Instead, the La Liga giants would consider including players in a deal to drive down the price.

And at 22 years of age, Real would be signing an exciting young talent to add to their ageing midfield.

Roca was part of the Spanish team that won the U21 European Championships this summer, further cementing his place as one of Europe’s brightest talents.

But Real could face competition from Bayern Munich, who have been linked with a move for the Spaniard throughout the summer.

Roca broke into Espanyol’s team in 2016, but it was last season where he established himself as a regular in the starting line-up.

source: express.co.uk