Chelsea midfielder in shock Real Madrid link

Chelsea midfielder Cesc Fabregas has reportedly emerged as a surprise transfer option for Real Madrid manager Zinedine Zidane.

The Spain international has been restricted to first-team action this season with manager opting to play Nemanja Matic and N'Golo Kante as his preferred pairing in midfield.

According to Diario Gol, Zidane is keen on recruiting the 29-year-old who has 'Barcelona DNA' in him having graduated from the La Masia academy.

Fabregas had spent part of his youth career with the Catalan giants before he returned from Arsenal in the summer of 2011. He therein opted for a Premier League comeback with Chelsea three years ago.

The Spanish playmaker is on the verge of a second league title in three seasons at Stamford Bridge, but the lack of regular football could lure him elsewhere in the summer.

Apart from Real Madrid, Italian giants AC Milan are also said to hold a strong interest in the World Cup winner.