REAL CONFIRM ZIZOU IS ON HIS WAY
As has been mooted for some time, but vehemently denied by Juventus, Zidane looks set to achieve an ambition of playing in Spain for the 2000 Champions League winners.
"The conversations have been cordial and the progress has been significant," Real declared in an official statement.
"Hopefully an agreement will be reached next week."
Zidane's wife is Spanish and she is believed to have been an influence behind the French midfield maestro's decision to quit Juve, despite being under contract in Turin until 2005.
At least Juve have softened the blow by splashing out already on Gianluigi Buffon and Lilian Thuram as the Italian summer spending spree hits new heights this year.
Juventus refused to comment on Wednesday but vice-president Luciano Moggi did say: "It is almost done."
Zidane himself has also admitted negotiations are underway, and the transfer at least matches Real's coup of last summer when they snared Luis Figo from fierce rivals Barcelona.
"Many rumours circulate about a possible move to Real Madrid," said the 29-year-old on his official website.
"Today I can say there are negotiations between the leaders of Juventus and Real Madrid.
"At the moment, nothing is signed."
Finally, Zidane's attorney Alain Miglaccio also confirmed that a deal was close, saying that he expected things to be tied up imminently.
"I will meet with the Real executives at the weekend to tie this deal up," said Miglaccio. "The negotiations cannot last forever.
"This morning Real's executives rang me up to tell me how much great progression has been made."
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