Spanish giants Real Madrid have opened talks to sign AS Monaco midfielder Bernardo Silva, according to reports in France.
French publication Le 10 Sport reveal that the Los Blancos have made contact with the player’s agent Jorge Mendes and have also registered their interest with AS Monaco as they eye a massive transfer this summer.
The Portuguese international have grown into one of the finest young central midfielders in Europe since moving to Monaco on loan before making a permanent switch to the French outfit.
He has already made 41 appearances for Monaco so far this season and have played a massive role in their impressive campaigns in the league as well as Champions League so far.
The 22-year old has scored eight goals and assisted six more so far this season for AS Monaco and his incredible performances have drawn interest from a host of clubs across Europe.
Le Sport 10 claims that Real Madrid eyes him as a perfect replacement for James Rodriguez who has fallen down the pecking order at Santiago Bernabeu under Zidane this season. But Manchester United, who are also interested in signing the player, have the option to the right of the first refusal.
He still has a contract with AS Monaco till 2020 and the club is expecting to sell him for at least €50 million this summer with both Manchester United and Real Madrid set for a bidding war.
James Rodriguez is expected to be offloaded by Real Madrid this summer as the 2014 World Cup star has failed to establish himself under Zidane ever since the Frenchman took over the reigns at Bernabeu last year.
Manchester City is also credited with a right winger who can also play as a striker as Silva is set to be one of the biggest names that could be available for clubs across Europe. However, Monaco is not keen to listen to any offers below €50 million for the talented youngster.