£7m? Paying over the odds, at least. However it would be surprising to see SAF say one thing and then be overridden by someone else. I'm sure Real Madrid would be happy to take him and he's said beforehand that he'd like to play there... but then the Spanish-speaking influence of Benitez & the possibility of continuing in the Prem might make a difference. will have to see how it all plays out.

Personally, I must admit, I'd also take Riise as well. Would take Evra above both. And Silvestre far after any of them.