Real Madrid fear Manchester United have won the race to sign Spanish defender

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.