HEINZE OFF TO MADRID?

Last updated : 28 May 2007 By Editor

Spanish based journo Sid Lowe in The Times:

Real Madrid are set to make an approach for the Manchester United full-back Gabriel Heinze. Heinze, who wants to leave Old Trafford for a new challenge, was in the Spanish capital for talks this weekend. He attended Real's 3-1 victory over Deportivo La Coruña at the Santiago Bernabéu on Saturday.

Real are seeking a replacement for Roberto Carlos. The Brazilian, 34, has announced his intention to leave at the end of the season. The team remained top of La Liga with Saturday's win although Barcelona are still level with them on points after their 1-0 home victory over Getafe, which was soured by the dismissal of Ronaldinho. The Brazilian scored Barça's goal after two minutes but was sent off for a retaliatory kick at David Belenguer after he had been fouled by the Getafe defender.

The Sun:

Gabriel Heinze is close to a £5million switch to Real Madrid.

Manchester United ace Heinze flew to the Spanish capital on Saturday to discuss the move.

And Real chiefs are convinced they will win the battle to land the Argie defender after he decided to quit Old Trafford.

They want him to replace Brazilian left-back Roberto Carlos, 34, who is being released after 10 years at the Bernabeu.

Heinze said: "I am convinced that if a good offer arrives then Manchester United will let me go."