Borussia Dortmund attacker Marco Reus has reportedly rejected the chance to join Barcelona, with the German favouring a move to Real Madrid.
The 25-year-old is widely regarded as one of the best attacking talents in European football and is expected to be the latest high-profile player to leave Dortmund.
According to Marca, Reus was open to Barca's interest, but is not prepared to wait until January 2016 – when the Catalan outfit's transfer ban is over – to complete a move.
As a result, Real Madrid are now said to lead the race for a player that has had his injury problems this season.
A clutch of Premier League clubs are also in the hunt.