Real Madrid were not planning on making any changes to their squad during this year's winter transfer window but a call from Athletic Bilbao in the last few hours has changed all that. Club president Josu Urrutia has put a more than tempting offer of €20-25 million on the table for Asier Illarramendi, which Madrid is giving very serious consideration. Illarra's exit would thereby expedite Lucas Silva's arrival.

First things first, however, and right now Real Madrid and Athletic are focused on thrashing out the details for the potential transfer of the former Real Sociedad player. Urrutia has already spoken to Florentino Pérez, who two years ago decided on a policy to bring more Spanish players into the squad - a wave which saw the arrival of both Illara and Isco, and he has subsequently always backed the midfielder despite the lack of minutes he has been given by Ancelotti.

This is a deal which looks likely to be given the green light as it appears to be in the interests of all parties. Athletic will strengthen their midfield with a player Valverde is keen on, Real will receive a tidy sum of around €25 million for a player who does not fit into Carlo's plans, and the player will be back out on the pitch.

Carlo has been reluctant to let Illarra go, although he has barely featured in recent matches despite Modric's absence.