Madrid confirm real interest in Edu

Real Madrid have admitted that Arsenal’s Edu is in their sights as they seek to strengthen in midfield.

The 26-year-old Brazilian was signed from Corinthians in 2001 but will be available for a free transfer in the summer unless he signs an extension to his contract, which has six months left to run.

Arsenal have made two contract offers to Edu, both of which he has rejected, and he has talked often of the chance to play in Spain, with Madrid, Barcelona and Valencia reportedly interested.

Madrid vice-president Emilio Butragueno admitted Edu could be on Madrid’s shopping list next month, when they might be able to prise him away from Highbury for a bargain fee.

Madrid have also been linked with Edu’s fellow Brazilian Robinho and French midfielder Benoit Pedretti recently, and it was put to Butragueno that the three could be bound for the Spanish capital.

“With regards to Robinho, we all know what his worth is,” said Butragueno. “The other two players mentioned are of interest and in the future they could be a part of the club’s plans.”