Reyes closer to permanent Real deal

Arsenal forward Jose Antonio Reyes’ agent has confirmed negotiations are continuing in a bid to secure a permanent move to Real Madrid.

The Spain international spent last season on-loan at Madrid, helping them win the Primera Liga title, and is eager to remain at the Bernabeu.

His agent Jesus Rodriguez de Moya said: “Reyes doesn’t want to return to London.

“If the logical steps are taken, Reyes will be a Madrid player next year.

“Arsenal are not asking for €20m, but they are asking for a reasonable fee in accordance with what they paid to Sevilla. The negotiations are on the table.”

The 23-year-old, who joined Arsenal from Sevilla for £9m in January 2004, scored twice as Madrid clinched the league title with a final-day 3-1 defeat of Real Zaragoza.