Last Updated: Sat, 04 Jul 2009 11:43
The agent of Inter Milan defender Maicon claims Real Madrid are keen to sign the Brazilian this summer.
The 27-year-old has been at the centre of speculation as Jose Mourinho looks to remodel his squad, with Inter looking for a solid Champions League bid next season.
Maicon is under contract with the Milan giants until June 2013 but has reportedly demanded a pay increase, with Inter officials so far resisting the temptation of offering him an improved deal.
Now the representative of Maicon, who has also been a target for Manchester City and Chelsea, says big-spending Real want to sign the full-back.
Agent Antonio Caliendo said: "I think that Maicon will be the cherry on the Real Madrid cake. At the moment there's nothing but I believe the situation is destined to change.
"After having bought (Karim) Benzema, now Real are focusing on (Franck) Ribery and Xabi Alonso, but then they will turn to Maicon.
"I have already said it and I repeat it - I'm expecting an offensive from them to try to buy him because he is the best in the world in his position."