Real Madrid have emerged as shock contenders in the race to take Chelsea's Michael Essien on loan.
Arsenal had been the first to make an approach for the out-of-favour Ghanian, who was left out of the Blues' squad for their UEFA Super Cup clash with Atletico Madrid
Manager Roberto di Matteo confirmed before that match that Essien was hoping to sort out a temporary switch away from Stamford Bridge, and suggested the destination was not a rival.
Earlier reports claimed, the box-to-box midfielder will head to Arsenal who have sold Alex Song to Barcelona.
But that was dispelled by the Chelsea manager Di Matteo in Monaco on Friday night.