Reyes set for Beast swap
31 Aug 2006 - 10:31:03
Arsenal forward Jose Antonio Reyes will join Real Madrid on Thursday in a cash-plus-player deal that will see Julio Baptista move to the Emirates Stadium, according to press reports.
Spain international Reyes looked set to join Real's bitter rivals Atletico Madrid earlier in the week, but now appears to have secured his dream move.
The 22-year-old has made no secret of his desire to return to his homeland after being unable to adapt to life in London following his £13.5million move from Sevilla in 2004.
Several Primera Liga clubs expressed an interest, but only Atletico were prepared to match Arsenal's asking price.
However, a late bid from Real of £2million plus Brazil forward Baptista appears to secured Reyes' services.
Baptista, 25, was a target for Gunners boss Arsene Wenger last summer, but eventually opted to join Real Madrid from Sevilla.