Real Madrid now seems to have an abundance of central midfielders in its squad. Casemiro, Isco and Illarramendi, along with Modric, Khedira and Xabi Alonso – who is recovering a lot sooner than expected – are the players that are sure to give Ancelotti a headache when it comes to picking his team.

The player who seems to be most threatened by the midfield overcrowding is Khedira. The German, who was a regular under Mourinho alongside Xabi, seems to be out of favour with the Italian manager. Ancelotti is yet to slot him into his desired formation, which is designed for players who are talented as opposed to physical.

In the light of the GermanŽs situation, Mourinho called him to see if he would like to play for Chelsea. The Portuguese wants him to lead his midfield and has promised to make him an important player for the London club.

Khedira is uncertain about his future at Real, as he fears he could end up watching what is to be an important season for him from the bench. Next summer will see Germany go into the 2014 World Cup in Brazil as one of the favourites to win, and the midfielder wants to form part of Joachim Löw's team to help the cause.

The Real number 6 needs to play as much football as possible and is unsure whether that will happen with 'Los Blancos'. So far this pre-season, Ancelotti has opted to go with Casemiro, as was the case in the game against Olympique Lyonnais after injury to Illarramendi.

Real has denied that an approach from Chelsea has been made, but the club does not rule out selling the German if a substantial bid does come in.