Real Madrid Transfer News: Lucas Silva to Spell End for Sami Khedira

Carlo Ancelotti's conundrum of whether to let Sami Khedira leave his ranks this summer could be made all the easier after reports surfaced saying Real Madrid are closing in on Lucas Silva.

The Cruzeiro anchor has been linked with a host of European giants, and Spanish newspaper Marca (h/t 101 Great Goals) went big on Friday in its coverage of Madrid's pursuit of the Brazilian.

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Cruzeiro are reportedly seeking €15 million for the man who helped them win successive Brasileiro Serie A titles in 2013 and 2014, also winning the Campeonato Mineiro in the latter.

Khedira only has seven months remaining on his deal at the Bernabeu, though Nicholas Rigg of Spanish newspaper AS says Ancelotti is still eager to extend the German's deal in Spain:

"

Within that, Ancelotti also said the club is still trying to renew Khedira's contract. Can't see it happening personally, we'll see

— Nicholas Rigg (@nicholasrigg) November 28, 2014"

Silva has been tipped for some time now as one of Brazil's brightest prospects who could make the move to European shores in the months to come.

Inside Spanish Football reported earlier in the week that contact has been made by Real, adding that Silva is thought to favour the Spanish top flight above any other destination.

He featured as part of the Brazil under-20 team that won the Toulon tournament earlier this year and is beginning to move closer to senior honours. Selecao manager Dunga would be sure to take notice if he were to move to Madrid.

Following the arrival of Toni Kroos this past summer, the competition for places in Real's midfield is stronger than ever, and Ancelotti has outlined Khedira's importance to the squad.

"It’s the intention of the club, but then, there are also negotiations to take place. Speaking from a technical point of view, I can say that he’s a player we need,” he told Inside Spanish Football.

Los Merengues may have need for the World Cup winner, but just whether Khedira envisages many chances alongside Kroos and Luka Modric is another matter.

Another Brazilian set to return to the Bernabeu next season is Casemiro, who joined Porto on a season-long loan in July and will hope to establish himself upon coming back to his parent club.

That being said, with Asier Illarramendi and Isco also vying for more prominent roles, Silva's arrival will likely result in at least one departure from the engine room.

Real won't want to lose Khedira for nothing, but should even more competition arrive in a role he's looking to occupy, the German's attention could be turned toward making a Bernabeu exit.