Real Madrid Several clubs chasing Palmeiras forward

A transfer tussle is set to ensue between La Liga's heavyweights as Real Madrid stepped up their efforts to sign Palmeiras forward Gabriel Jesus.

Barcelona had appeared favourites to win the race for the Brazilian amid a host of European clubs, including Juventus and Bayern Munich, after director Raul Sanllehi attended Tuesday's 2-0 over America Minero.

But MARCA can confirm that Los Blancos have been tracking Gabriel Jesus, who has scored six times in 10 outings for Palmeiras this season, and now aim to trump their arch rivals to his capture in a deal which would cost the European champions in the region of 24 million euros.

Negotiations, however, are likely to be complex due to third-party issues relating to the 19-year-old's ownership, which is split between the player, his representatives and the Alviverde club.

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