Southampton, Arsenal, Man Utd and Chelsea face battle in pursuit of Real Madrid star

Real Madrid's Lucas Silva is attracting interest from all over Europe

REAL MADRID midfielder Lucas Silva is attracting interest from all over Europe, with Marseille and Napoli the latest in a long list of clubs to be linked.

 

Southampton, Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester United are all understood to retain an interest in the Brazilian but Inside Spanish Football claim Napoli have now thrown their hat into the ring, while French Newspaper La Provence say Marseille are keen.

 

Silva is understood to be surplus to requirements at the Bernabeu under new manager Rafa Benitez.

Saints recently emerged as surprise suitors for his signature, with the deal expected to be part of a transfer merry-go-round involving Premier League clubs.

The 24-year-old could be seen as a replacement for wantaway midfielder Victor Wanyama, who is reportedly keen on a switch to Tottenham.

Meanwhile, United want Saints forward Sadio Mane and have already lodged a bid of around £15million.

Real Madrid's Asier Illarramendi is another player said to be interesting the south coast club as well as Arsenal and Liverpool, and he could be on the move from the Spanish capital.

However, competition from the continent could put paid to any deal for either of the pair.