Real Madrid are on the lookout for a replacement for prime playmaker Xabi Alonso. El Confidencial says Real president Florentino Perez has met with coach Jose Mourinho to discuss identifying a long-term successor for the ex-Liverpool midfielder.

The two top candidates are AS Roma star Daniele de Rossi and Sao Paulo wonderkid Lucas.

De Rossi comes off contract in June and has been a long-term target for Florentino. He is also on the wanted list of Manchester City.

Lucas, meanwhile, is rated Brazil's brightest young midfield talent and at 18 is already a full international. Sao Paulo are prepared to sell for €30 million.