Real Madrid tracking Axel Witsel

Real Madrid have reportedly joined the race to sign Benfica star Axel Witsel.

The 23-year-old, a long-term target of Manchester United, only moved to the Estadio da Luz last summer from Standard Liege.

It is believed that Sir Alex Ferguson has had scouts tracking the midfielder's progress for a number of years.

However, according to talkSPORT, Madrid are now ready to launch a £15m bid for Witsel, who has earned 27 caps for Belgium.