Real Madrid are plotting a £15million swoop for Chelsea midfielder Ramires ahead of the January transfer window, Metro reports.

Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti is currently drawing up plans ahead of the new year, with the Italian briefing his scouts this week of proposed targets.

Ancelotti is believed to be keen on adding another box-to-box midfielder, with doubts growing over the long-term fitness of Xabi Alonso.

Madrid have already been linked with a number of players, including Tottenham star Paulinho, but it is understood that Chelsea ace Ramires is the top target.

The 26-year-old would cost around £15million and Madrid scouts are ready to follow his progress until January ahead of a potential bid.

Ramires was signed for Chelsea by Ancelotti – and it’s thought that the 26-year-old would be keen on linking up with his former manager once again.

If Madrid could agree a deal, it’s expected that Alonso would be allowed to depart for a nominal fee, with Liverpool in pole position to re-sign him.