Barcelona star Frenkie de Jong has told rivals Real Madrid they should sign former Ajax team-mate Donny van de Beek.
De Jong made the switch from Amsterdam to Spain over the summer and fellow midfielder Van de Beek is being tipped to follow him to La Liga.
With Los Blancos looking set to miss out on Manchester United midfielder Paul Pogba, the Dutchman is viewed as a cheaper alternative.
Youngster De Jong has sent a clear message to Real Madrid - by insisting he is ready to play for one of Europe's top clubs and declared he "deserves' to be given the move.
"I would prefer him to stay at Ajax as I would not have him as an opponent and, in addition, Ajax would remain strong," De Jong told ESPN.
"But if ends up at Real Madrid, I would be really happy for him.
"I think he deserves it. He is a great player.
"He showed it last season in the Champions League, especially in the knockout rounds.
"He has shown the world and everyone in Europe that he has the ability to play at that level."
Van de Beek recently confirmed negotiations with Real Madrid, who have until their transfer window closes at the start of September to complete a deal for the 22-year-old.
Van de Beek said: "There are still negotiations. I would like things to be resolved as soon as possible.
"When I am at the stadium and playing, I don’t ever think about my possible move."
