Race hots up for Ezequiel Garay

Portuguese daily newspaper Record has suggested that a number of top European clubs are hot on the trail of Zenit defender Ezequiel Garay.

The Argentine stopper has another three years left on his contract in Russia, but it appears he has decided to look for a new challenge.

And while former club Benfica are keen on his services, they are likely to face stiff competition from Valencia and Inter Milan.

Los Che look set to cash in on Shkodran Mustafi and they see Garay as a very good replacement for the German.

Given that the central defender has already played for Racing Santander and Real Madrid and that his wife is Spanish, a move to La Liga is likely to appeal to him.

It is believed that Zenit value their prized asset at €15 million, with Inter Milan reportedly looking at the Argentine footballer as they search for defensive reinforcements.