Real Madrid are weighing up a surprise summer move for Sevilla sporting director Monchi, according to reports in Spain.
Canal Sur Radio and Marca report Madrid president Florentino Perez – who is set to be re-elected this summer until 2021 – is keen to bring in Monchi, who he feels would add a fresh sense of direction and renewed sense of optimism to the club.
The sporting director has been with the Andalucians since 2000 and is regarded as the architect behind their recent rise to prominence and five Europa League titles, but previously had said he would consider a move to Rome or Paris.
Marca state that whilst last year the former goalkeeper had requested to leave Estadio Sanchez Pizjuan only to be told any club would have to pay his €10m release clause, a board of directors meeting last week is said to have changed direction and will allow him to leave should that be his wish.
"I'm so excited about the present that I don't think about the future,” Monchi told Cadena Ser show El Larguero in January.
“The best place for me to work is at Sevilla.
"My clause is €5m, but I would never pay it – the decision of me going would not be unilateral, I have a contract.”