Spanish giants Real Madrid are hoping to sign Serge Aurier from Tottenham this summer, according to reports.
Dani Carvajal is Zinedine Zidane’s first-choice right-back but it’s understood the manager wants to sign an understudy.
Aurier’s Spurs deal is due to expire at the end of next season, making him an affordable option for Los Blancos.
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According to French source Foot Mercato (via ESPN), Aurier is aware of the transfer rumours and has spoken with Raphael Varane about a move to Real.
The defenders are friends from their time together at Lens, whom Aurier left for Toulouse in 2012.
They spent a year together at the French side and could be reunited next season.
Any transfer will depend on the new Spurs boss and their willingness to keep Aurier. Should they prefer Matt Doherty in his position, then the Ivorian will be sold to raise transfer funds.
Aurier was signed from Paris Saint-Germain for a £22.5million fee in August 2017. However, he’s failed to hold down a first-team place this term and has struggled with numerous injuries.
Interim boss Ryan Mason, who took charge following the sacking of Jose Mourinho, has placed his trust in the 28-year-old.
Aurier has featured in the last three Premier League games and chipped in with two assists as Spurs beat Sheffield United 4-0.
But his next performance was of a significantly lower standard. He failed to handle Leeds winger Jack Harrison as the Whites eased to a 3-1 victory at Elland Road.
If rumours are to be believed then Real will face competition from Paris Saint-Germain for the full-back.
Mauricio Pochettino is now in charge of the French giants and is thought to be eyeing a reunion with Aurier.
The player’s contract includes a €10million ‘exit pass’, which allows him to leave north London if such a bid is submitted.
Aurier could be joined by team-mate Harry Kane in leaving Spurs this summer. The England skipper is wanted by Manchester United, Manchester City and Real.
He may also pursue a transfer in order to win major honours before reaching the twilight years of his career.