Barcelona and Real Madrid are chasing Almeria whizkid Hicham Khaloua.

The 17 year-old is regarded among the best young players in Spain and was set to sign for Manchester City only to be thwarted by work permit problems.

Real scout Sebastian Herrera confirmed: "At the moment there is nothing serious, Real Madrid has not made any approach to the player, but we are following him as we are many junior players."