Real Madrid president Florentino Perez is reportedly fearful that Manchester United have moved into pole position to sign Villarreal centre-back Pau Torres.

The Spain international is believed to have been identified by Los Blancos as the ideal replacement for Sergio Ramos should the experienced defender leave on a free transfer this summer.

However, Man United have also been strongly linked with the 24-year-old, who is said to have a €60m (£51.4m) release clause in his current deal with the Yellow Submarine.

A recent report claimed that Torres is interested in joining the 20-time English champions during this summer's transfer window, and according to El Desmarque, Perez is of the opinion that the Red Devils have stolen the defender from under their noses.

Torres has again been in impressive form at club level this season, scoring three times in 32 appearances in all competitions, while he is expected to be a part of the Spain squad at this summer's European Championships.

Manchester City have also previously been credited with an interest in his services. body check tags ::