Reports from Spain and England suggest that the Primera Liga champions are ready to launch a ₤9M bid for the former Arsenal and Chelsea man.

Moreover, Real new boss Juande Ramos revealed his willingness to land the versatile midfielder, especially after the team lost his namesake Mahamadou Diarra until the end of the season.

"He is a player I know well, and I would like a player like Diarra here," the ex-Tottenham manager was quoted by Spanish media.

It is also believed that Portsmouth are on their way to sacrifice a number of key players in January, amidst the club board's unsettlement.