Real Linked With Hleb Move

[Bazza]

Real Madrid have reportedly joined the race to prise Alexander Helb away from Arsenal after making tentative contact with the player's represenatives.

The Spanish giants are set to compete with Inter Milan and Barcelona, who have already expressed their interest following Hleb's reported willingness to quit the Emirates Stadium.

According to a report in Spain, the Gunners are prepared to offer the 27-year-old a £60,000-a-week deal to try and persuade him to stay, but that would be eclipsed by the reported £100,000-a-week contract on offer from Inter.

Madrid are also prepared to meet that amount after sporting director Predrag Mijatovic joined the Hleb fan club and is keen to see him bolster the right side of Madrid's midfield.

Barcelona have also made their intentions clear by informing the player's agents they would meet his demands as the club look to continue their summer rebuilding programme.

Nou Camp technical secretary Txiki Begiristain has been tracking Hleb for some time and the Catalan press believe that an official approach will be made as soon as Inter make their move.