Real Madrid chasing transfer of Eder Militao but face competition from Manchester United, Liverpool and Chelsea

Real Madrid are considering paying the €50m release clause in Eder Militao's contract, according to reports in the Spanish capital on Thursday morning.

AS reports that Madrid are keen to beat Manchester United, Liverpool and Chelsea to the signing of the 20-year-old defender.

The Brazilian can play in central defence or at right-back and has impressed since arriving at FC Porto, being named the Portguese Primeira Liga's best defender in September, October, November and December.

With such a premium on finding a top-class central defender these days, the £44m release clause on such a talented young player is almost certain to be triggered by one of Europe's elite clubs this summer.

Should nobody bite the bullet then the clause rises to €75m (£66m) after July 1st.

Madrid are planning a big rebuild in the summer with many veterans set to exit and an influx of talent expected.

Timo Werner and Christian Eriksen are among the players being looked at as Florentino Perez also considers what to do in the dugout, where Santiago Solari is yet to impress but Mauricio Pochettino will need some convincing if he is to leave Tottenham.