Real Madrid they took a key step in their push for the sign Liverpool star Trent Alexander-Arnold.
Alexander-Arnold is considering his options carefully with the Reds offering a five-year extension on his current contract.
The England international is out of contract at the end of the 2024/25 campaign with no progress being made on a deal at this stage.
Confidence is high in Madrid and Merseyside on his ability to convince the 26-year-old to accept offers from rivals.
According to reports from TalksportReal Madrid want to maintain a respectful relationship with Liverpool, and have formally told the leaders of the Premier League about their offer for the defender.
Alexander-Arnold can open free transfer talks in January if he wants to explore an exit while the saga continues.
No updates are expected from either club until the end of December with talks also ongoing over deals for Alexander-Arnold, Mohamed Salah and captain Virgil van Dijk.