Sevilla win race for Real Madrid's Óscar Rodríguez

Sevilla have won the race for the highly coveted Óscar Rodríguez, who arrives from Real Madrid on a five-year deal.

Óscar, 22, will reportedly cost Sevilla €16million for 75 per cent of his ownership rights, with Madrid retaining the remaining 25 per cent.

The gifted midfielder came through Madrid's academy, known as La Fábrica, but had spent the two previous seasons on loan with Leganés in LaLiga, helping them to preserve their top-flight status in 2018-19.

Leganés were unable to repeat the feat in 2019-20 as they were relegated on the final day of the season, but Óscar still managed to enjoy a fine campaign individually.

His haul of nine goals made him Leganés' top-scorer and he also supplied a pair of assists.

A fine technician and dead-ball specialist, Óscar's arrival will help alleviate the loss of Ever Banega.

Experienced Argentine playmaker Banega joined Saudi Arabia's Al-Shabab after helping Sevilla to a sixth Europa League crown against Inter.

Óscar had been strongly linked with several other clubs, particularly Milan, but he moves to the Ramon Sanchez Pizjuán where he will get a taste of Champions League football.

The transfer caps a special couple of weeks for the midfielder, who received his first call-up to Spain's senior side on August 20.

It is reported that, as part of the deal, Sevilla will keep Madrid informed of any bids they receive for highly rated centre-back Jules Kounde.