Real Madrid have reportedly been told that Luka Modric, who is also a target for Manchester United, can only join them if Tottenham get Nuri Sahin in return.
Modric is believed to be Man Utd manager Sir Alex Ferguson's top summer transfer target, but widespread newspaper reports at the weekend suggested the player is keen on a move to Spain and wants to join Real Madrid.
However, according to The Times, Spurs are keen on getting a player in return as they prepare to part company with the Croatia international, and initial talks about a part-exchange deal have already taken place.
And the north London club are said to have informed Los Blancos they will need to cough up £25million, in addition to Turkey international Sahin, if they are serious about signing Modric this summer.
Sahin joined Madrid from Borussia Dortmund twelve months ago in a deal worth around £8, but failed to make an impression at the Bernabeu last season.
Reports in Spain earlier this year suggested Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho was interested in sending him out on loan for a year in order for him to get more games under his belt.
Several Premier League clubs are believed to have shown interest in the 23-year-old, including United and Chelsea.
Marca recently reported that a move back to Dortmund was the most likely scenario after they failed with a bid to take him back to Germany in January.
Tottenham appear to be keen on signing the midfielder on a permanent basis, however, which could potentially lead to Modric's move to the Bernabeu falling through, especially as it unknown whether Sahin is interested in leaving Spain, and whether Mourinho is willing to let him move on.
Modric and his representatives are scheduled to hold talks with Tottenham chairman Daniel Levy this week to discuss his future.
Bookmaker Sky Bet on Monday afternoon still made Madrid odds-on favourites to sign the midfielder this summer, ahead of United, Barcelona - who are believed to have scouted him during Euro 2012 - and Chelsea.
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