Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho is reportedly considering a summer swoop to be reunited with Sami Khedira at Stamford Bridge.
Khedira was cornerstone of Mourinho's midfield during his three seasons at Real Madrid, but a faces a fight to keep his place under new coach Carlo Ancelotti.
Spanish youngsters Asier Illaramendi and Isco have added competition to a crowded Madrid midfield, which already contains Xabi Alonso, Mesut Ozil and Luka Modric.
That strength in depth has reportedly convinced Mourinho that he could persuade Khedira to join his new-look Chelsea side, which he believes still need a willing runner in central midfield.
Mourinho has maintained a strong relationship with Khedira and will continue to monitor his situation at the Santiago Bernabeu with a view to a £20m bid, according to The Mirror.
The 26-year-old has played 126 times in all competitions for the Spanish giants and has earned 39 caps for Germany at international level.