REAL VIERI RUMOURS RIFE

REAL MADRID are reportedly the latest team to enquire as to the availability of Internazionale striker Christian Vieri - despite insistence from the club that the Italian international is staying put.

Vieri has had a difficult season, struggling through injury, but his recent form has reminded people why he was once the world's most expensive footballer, after joining from Lazio for £32 million two years ago.

Vieri has already played in Spain, with Madrid rivals Atletico, and his brilliance has left him with a massive reputation in La Liga.

Real have been long-term suitors of Vieri, and suggestions in the Spanish media of an accepted bid of £1.2 million plus Fernando Morientes and Guti have been rife.

However, neither of the two Real players are said to be happy with the suggestions of a move to Italy, and a new bid from sporting director Jorge Valdano is rumoured to have been tabled.

Gabriele Oriali, sports director at Inter, had earlier suggested that he thought the brilliant marksman was going to remain in Milan, saying: "I think that Vieri will stay.

"All the players have ambitions to get into the Champions League and they are all aware of our desires in that direction."