Real Madrid: Zidane approves Jovic loan; Roma and Inter Milan keen on taking the striker

Zidane has given his approval for Luka Jovic to go out on loan for the remainder of the season. The Real Madrid striker is expected to join one of three Italian clubs before Monday. Jovic has three proposals to think over - firm offers from Roma, Inter Milan and AC Milan, which came in in that order. There has also been interest, although not quite as keen and without a concrete offer, from Manchester United, which is the most remote option. Madrid and Jovic are both in agreement that he should accept the offer which will guarantee the most playing time. In that regard, Roma are leading the chase for the player and the favourites to agree a loan deal.

Benzema blocking a way into the team for Jovic

Real Madrid have a lot of hope in Jovic, but the player has given the impression that he hasn't gelled in the team. He joined from Eintracht Frankfurt as one of the most promising strikers in Europe but at Real Madrid, it's not so simple and he found himself up against a Karim Benzema at the top of his game, with whom he was unable to compete with. For that reason, it has been decided that the best option for Jovic is to go out on loan to a quality team where he will feature in the starting line-up week in, week out, be able to grow as a player and return with experience and maturity. Zidane has explained that to Jovic, who views a loan spell as a positive step in his career.

The operation is expected to go through, at the latest, by Monday. Negotiations with Roma remain in progress and advanced yesterday evening. Over the next few days, the final flecks of the deal should be ironed out. The main issue that needs to be sorted out is the player's wages. Jovic earns four million euros at Madrid and Roma are hoping to reduce that figure. Madrid could adjust the cost of the loan based on the 10 million euros they would have received for Borja Mayoral, who now will be staying in Zidane's squad.

But Inter also remain in contention to land the player, and they are offering a more economic package for Madrid and for Jovic. Then there is AC Milan, who in their favour, have the positive way Brahim's loan is turning out. Jovic likes the idea of spending the rest of the season on loan with United, but no firm offer has been received and as things stand, it is a very remote possibility. As far as Madrid are concerned, Jovic's loan isn't about profit but making sure the player is getting regular playing time. That will help him get his career back on track so that he can return to the Bernabéu with more confidence.