Real keeping tabs on Ricardo Rodriguez

Real Madrid are considering a January bid for Wolfsburg star Ricardo Rodriguez, AS can reveal.

Los Blancos plan to offload Alvaro Arbeloa at the earliest opportunity and in turn are looking to sign a left-sided defender to challenge Marcelo for a starting berth.

According to AS, Wolfsburg full-back Ricardo Rodriguez has emerged as their top target following some scintillating performances in Germany and Europe.

However, the Wolves look unlikely to cash in on their prized asset midway through the season, but a summer exit cannot be ruled out.

Namely, a €36 million release clause will be activated next June, meaning that Real Madrid will have a chance to secure the defender’s services at a reasonable price.

Rodriguez, 23, is an attack-minded full-back that perfectly fits the los Blancos mould, and he has managed impressive 19 goals and 23 assists in 141 competitive appearances for Wolfsburg, since joining from Zurich in January 2012.