Real Madrid and Bayern Munich are set to battle it out for the signature of Chelsea defender Alex, who has seemingly become surplus to requirements at the Stamford Bridge club.

The Brazilian has fallen behind countryman David Luiz as first choice to partner John Terry at centre back, and may now leave the club in search of more regular game time.

Former boss Jose Mourinho is keen to bring the 29-year-old to the Santiago Bernabeu according to The Daily Mail, and needs to find a replacement for Ezequiel Garay, who has recently joined Benfica. The Spanish giants will face competition from the Bavarian side however, who are looking to bolster their defence after finishing third in the 2010/11 Bundesliga.

Meanwhile Chelsea are on the verge of signing Genk goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois according to the 19-year-old's father, who has travelled to London to discuss personal terms with the English side.

Also, Dale Jennings has completed his move from Tranmere Rovers to Bayern Munich, despite a pelvic problem showing up in his medical. The 18-year-old moves to Germany for £1.7m.