Cruzeiro midfielder Lucas Silva has conceded he is pleased with rumours linking him to Real Madrid.
The 21 year-old is seemingly set to be one of the most sought after players in the January transfer window, with the likes of Chelsea, Internazionale and Milan all said to be keen.
Despite the interest from these outfits however, it is Real Madrid who are believed to be leading the chase and have reportedly already made a bid for him.
“I was happy with the news [of possibly joining Madrid] but also very surprised," Lucas Silva told AS, as reported by Football Espana.
“It"s a sign that my work is valued not only here in Brazil but also abroad.
“If it really happened, because at the moment it"s just speculation, it would be important for my family because they"re from [Bom Jesus de] Goiás, a small town where I started my career.
“It would be the realisation of my dreams and comfort for my family. Perhaps it"s already time to return them the favour."
A big incentive for Lucas Silva to join Real Madrid is the chance to play alongside forward Cristiano Ronaldo.
The youngster admits he has followed the Portugal international’s career and hopes his dream will be realised.
“Since my childhood I"ve been following Cristiano"s matches from Manchester and now much more at Real Madrid," he stated.
“I never expected that one day [I"d possibly play alongside him], it would be a dream.
“I imagined many things as a little boy, but I didn"t expect things were going to happen so fast.
“All the dreams and goals that I have are being realised thanks to God."
Lucas Silva has come to prominence as part of a Cruzeiro side that has won the 2013 and 2014 Brasileirão titles. The Brazil U-20 international has made 50 appearances over the past two seasons and is expected to star for the Seleção at Rio 2016.
