Real Madrid Transfer News: Marco Reus Sparks La Liga Rumours, Lucas Silva Latest

German newspaper Bild (h/t 101 Great Goals) has reported that Borussia Dortmund forward Marco Reus—potentially a key target for many of Europe's elite in the summer—has been learning Spanish for three weeks.

Bundesliga specialist Clark Whitney provided extra information on this potentially huge snippet of information:

Of course, Barcelona's transfer ban suggests Real Madrid is the only option for Reus. The Blaugrana cannot sign anyone until 2016, pending their appeal verdict from the Court of Arbitration for Sport, leaving Madrid free to snap the rapid forward up.

Reports previously suggested Los Blancos have first option to buy Reus, but this was rubbished by BVB chief executive Hans-Joachim Watzke.

"This is complete nonsense that there is an option right agreement," said Watzke, per Reuters and via The Guardian. "Marco alone will decide where he will go. If he decides to make use of the (£20 million summer buyout) clause there is nothing we can do."

Michael Probst/Associated Press

Whitney provided a summary of why Reus' potential move to the Bernabeu may end up benefiting the Bundesliga:

Premier League clubs including Chelsea, per Charles Perrin of the Express, and Manchester United have also been linked with a move for Reus. Of course, optimistic fans will suggest he is learning Spanish to fit in with the likes of Cesc Fabregas or Ander Herrera at these clubs.

However, if news of his lessons are proven to be true, all signs point toward Reus becoming the subject of Florentino Perez's annual splurge.

Gonzalo Arroyo Moreno/Getty Images

The Real Madrid president secured James Rodriguez last summer, with Gareth Bale and Luka Modric arriving in the years prior. He loves to build Madrid's image with a popular capture who can impact results on the pitch, categories Reus certainly falls into when fully fit.

He netted six goals and provided three assists in 11 matches before sustaining injury this season, per WhoScored.com. Reus is a speedy, stylish and constantly incisive forward who would naturally fit into Madrid's attacking philosophy.

The club is also aiming to "splash the cash to snap up the best prospects," reported by Jose Felix Diaz of Marca. Perez has reportedly tabled an offer for classy Cruzeiro midfielder Lucas Silva, per AS, but is yet to tempt the Brazilian side into selling their prized 21-year-old. 

Both Marca and AS indicate Silva's transfer is close, per 101 Great Goals:

The midfield's assurance in possession and natural quality on the ball is highlighted below:

Carlo Ancelotti would certainly face an interesting situation when trying to fit both players into his first team. Right now, Madrid's play is terrifically balanced with pace, power and positional discipline dominating their opponents. Reus could perhaps be utilised as a long-term replacement for Ronaldo, who will turn 30 before the end of the season.

Madrid may have to consider letting someone leave if this transfer does come to fruition, such is the impact of UEFA's Financial Fair Play rules. Luckily, Reus' potential £20 million buyout fee is a fraction of what he is actually worth by today's standards, meaning his eventual suitors shouldn't have to rejig too thoroughly to incorporate his arrival.