Real Madrid director of sport Jorge Valdano has reportedly claimed that Brazilian full back Roberto Carlos will complete a £20 million move to Chelsea in the coming days.
There has been intense speculation about the future of the former Internazionale star as talks with Real over a new contract have stalled in recent weeks.

With just one year left to run on his current deal, the 31-year-old is seeking a new four-year contract while Madrid are only prepared to offer him two years.

The impasse has opened the door to Chelsea, long-term admirers of the rampaging defender, who are believed to be ready to step in with a three-year deal that would almost double his current wages.

Reports emanating from South America on Monday claimed Roberto Carlos had admitted he would leave the Santiago Bernabeu this summer, and now Valdano has been quoted as saying a switch to Chelsea is on the verge of being finalised.

"We're waiting for a fax from Chelsea confirming they will pay the £20million fee in order to complete the deal," Valdano told the Spanish press according to The Times.

Real president Florentino Perez also sent out a clear signal that he was growing tired of the confusion surrounding the South American's future by insisting that there was no place in Madrid for players who were not committed to the club.

Perez made it clear he would study any offer that arrived from Stamford Bridge - conceding contract talks with Carlos were currently dead.

"At the moment the negotiations to renew Roberto Carlos (his contract) are nowhere," stated the Real supremo.

"We have stated on many occasions our desire that he should finish his contract at Real Madrid.

"If Chelsea wants any Real Madrid player they should put it in writing, making it an official offer and we will study it.

"We don't want doubtful players at Real Madrid, those that stay must be enthusiastic."