Real have been long-term admirers of the Dutch playmaker, who impressed for Hamburg since joining from Ajax Amsterdam in 2005.

Los Merengues have reportedly seen an initial for Van der Vaart turned down by Hamburg.

But the 25-year-old is hoping the German side would let him join Real.

"For me to play at Real Madrid is a dream, and if this agreement is eventually sealed I will be a happy man," Van der Vaart told Spanish daily AS.

"For the moment I'm still a Hamburg player but I hope things can be settled soon and that the two clubs can find an agreement."