Fabricio Coloccini is a reported target for Real Madrid.

The Argentina international joined Newcastle United in the summer of 2008 for a reported £10million, but he was unable to prevent the Magpies suffering relegation from the Premier League.

He was expected to move on in the summer but United struggled to find any takers, but he has since buckled down and played his part as they look set for an instant top-flight return.

Reports in Spain claim Real, who are looking for a replacement for the injured Pepe, are considering an offer for the 27-year-old centre-half when the transfer window reopens.

Coloccini, of course, has experience of playing in La Liga, as it was his performances for Deportivo La Coruna which first persuaded Newcastle to splash out on him.

Although the player has recently stated his desire to remain at St James Park and help them back to the Premier League, a move to Real would offer him UEFA Champions League football.

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