€25 million ceiling for Danilo

With Danilo's full approval in the bag, Real Madrid are set on trying to capture the Brazilian for €20-25 million.

Such a deal would give Porto a €7-12m profit on what they originally forked out to bring in the full-back. This is small change compared to the roaring trade the Portuguese club prides itself on doing.

Danilo, though, has a major bargaining chip in the fact that the former Santos man only has 16 months to go on his contract, meaning there is always the possibility of him waiting out this period and leaving for free. Such circumstances would seem to dictate that Porto will struggle to fetch the €40m release clause that they initially pointed to when 'Los Blancos' made their first approach.

The Dragons' cash-flow problems and the consequent need to raise funds is another factor in Real's favour.

Pinto da Costa looks to be backed into a corner, but the Porto chairman - a legendary hardball wheeler-dealer - will doubtless attempt all manner of ploys before striking a deal. Nevertheless, all roads appear to lead to the negotiating table, as no one in their right mind would cough up a player's full release clause when they are about to enter the last year of their contract.