Cannavaro's deal expires next summer but Real intend to reward the Italian defender for his displays during his time at the Santiago Bernabeu by offering him a contract extension.

"Fabio is a great player," Ramos told La Gazzetta dello Sport on Thursday.

"He offers security on the pitch and in the dressing room. We'll renew his contract and he'll stay here."

Cannavaro joined Real in the summer of 2006 after leading Italy to their fourth World Cup triumph in history.

The 35-year-old, who was named the 2006 FIFA Player of the Year, established himself as a key member of Real's defense and led the Spanish giants to two successive Primera Liga titles.