Maicon expressed his desire to join Real Madrid, but said he would not force a move from Inter Milan.

The Brazilian had been involved in a tug-of-war between the two football giants, and sat on the fence when asked about his future by Radio Globo.

"The deal is delicate. Before I went to the World Cup I spoke with my agent and Inter. If I go then I will do it with my head high and I would be happy either way.

"With Inter I have a contract until 2014. Madrid? I have already worked with Mourinho and I would like to be coached by him again. I would go to Madrid, but it doesn't depend on me.

"I would like to stay at Inter. I would not be frustrated as the club have given me visibility on the international stage. It depends on the clubs."

Currently both clubs have failed to agree a transfer fee. Real Madrid offered €22 million, but that was thrown back by Inter who now, according to La Gazzetta dello Sport, want between €28-30m.

Maicon's wage demands may also prove a stumbling block given the Spanish giant's well-known financial troubles, given he is looking at least €7m per annum in wages in Madrid.