Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite left a potential tip for wanting to play Real Madrid in the future.
The England U21 international has earned rave reviews so far this season as part of his breakthrough campaign with the Premier League side.
Branthwaite returned to Goodison Park after a loan spell at PSV Eindhoven last season and is a key first-team player for Sean Dyche.
His current deal on Merseyside runs until 2027 with the club putting up a transfer valuation of £35m this year.
However, the potential for relegation to the Premier League could complicate their desire to keep him, with strong transfer interest from England and wider European football.
Real Madrid are said to be monitoring the 21-year-old's progress, as a possible long-term option, and will be pleased with some recent comments from Branthwaite.
As part of an interview with BBC Sportthe center back hailed for the captain of Los Blancos Sergio Ramos as his idol, as part of watching Real Madrid as a youngster.
“The first player who became an idol for me was Sergio Ramos. He is a top central defender!”
