Jan Oblak
Jan Oblak Reuters

Benfica goalkeeper Jan Oblak's agent has confirmed that Real Madrid have enquired about the youngster's availability this summer – as they are keen on signing the stopper as back-up to Iker Casillas and beating city rivals Atletico to his signing.

The 21-year-old, who joined Benfica from Olimpija Ljubljana in 2010, is among the most talented young stoppers to have emerged from Europea in recent years.

He started last season's campaign on the bench, but earned his place in Jorge Jesus' lineup and has since attracted interest from big European clubs such as Atletico Madrid and Juventus.

According to Daily AS, Oblak's agent Miha Mlakar has confirmed that both Real Madrid and Atletico are interested in his client, and insisted that Los Blancos have been the first to approach him.

Oblak - who has four years left on his deal at Estadio da Luz and a €20m release clause - is one of the first names on Los Blancos' wishlist. His youth and potential would make him a great long-term signing, capable of replacing Casillas when his contract expires in three years.

Real reportedly plan to put Oblak on loan for one or two more seasons in Lisbon, similar to the way Thibaut Courtois has been groomed by Atletico.

When asked if his client would be willing to stay in Casillas' shadow until 2016, Mlakar said: "The summer transfer is very long and it runs until 31 August."

Atletico and Juventus also keeping tabs on Obak. Los Rojiblancos want him for this summer as Courtois is likely to return to Chelsea next season, especially after Blues boss Jose Mourinho said "when the World Cup is over, Courtois will come straight back to London."

Meanwhile, the Slovenian stopper would also be a real option for the Italian giants as veteran 'keeper Gianluigi Buffon is already 36 and has only one year left on his contract, which has not been renewed yet.

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