Real Madrid president Florentino Perez is fearful that Manchester United may have stolen the march to sign Villarreal defender Pau Torres.
Los Blancos have identified Torres as a possible replacement for Sergio Ramos, who could leave on a free transfer this summer.
However, they are not alone in the pursuit and United have recently entered the race to sign the centre-back, who has a £51.4m release clause in his contract.
According to El Desmarque, Perez is annoyed by United’s interest in Torres, who has been a long-term target for the Spanish champions.
The Los Blancos chief fears United may have moved in pole position to sign the defender as he favours a move to the Premier League.
The Red Devils are unlikely to afford the price tag for Torres, but reports have claimed that Villarreal may accept a player-plus-cash deal.
Eric Bailly, Jesse Lingard and Juan Mata are among players, who could be included in the deal for Torres to lower the valuation.