Sami Khedira in talks with Schalke 04

Schalke 04 have confirmed that they have held talks with Real Madrid midfielder Sami Khedira over a potential move to the club.

The Germany international is out of contract at the end of the season and has been linked with a host of Europe's top sides, including Premier League trio Chelsea, Arsenal and Manchester United.

Schalke president Clemens Tonnies has revealed that negotiations have begun with the 27-year-old over a return to the Bundesliga.

"Yes, we've had the first few discussions. When he is at full strength, I think Khedira can be a great help to us in the future," the Daily Star quotes Tonnies as saying.

"If a World Cup winner like Khedira is out of contract in June, you have to consider it, there's no doubt about that but as you can imagine, there are several clubs after him."

Khedira joined Real from Stuttgart in 2010.