Following the news of Angel Di Maria’s £59.7 million transfer to Manchester United, reports emanating from Spain and France are saying that Real Madrid president Florentino Perez has made it his top priority to sign AS Monaco striker Radamel Falcao before the conclusion of the transfer window.

The signing of Falcao has been the president’s obsession for the majority of the summer. But Perez was unable to make a move for the Colombia international until Madrid were able to recoup some of the money they had spent on big-name arrivals over the past few months.

Despite the fact that manager Carlo Ancelotti has repeatedly stated that he is happy with Los Blancos attacking options, Perez and Falcao’s agent Jorge Mendes have been in constant contact regarding a move for the 28-year-old striker. Speculation is Madrid’s president and Monaco officials will hold talks at tomorrow’s UEFA Champions League group stage draw in Monte Carlo.

It is understood that the British transfer record £59.7m sale of Di Maria to Manchester United will allow the Spanish giants to pursue a permanent, or loan deal, for Falcao.

The French publication Le Sport reported that the ten-time champions of Europe are preparing a £48 million offer for the player. While the Spanish newspaper AS believes that Madrid may take the loan approach, with the club offering to pay £10m up front with a £38m option.

According to Sid Lowe of The Guardian, where Falcao would fit in with the Real Madrid lineup has been widely discussed among the club’s officials. Monaco have also told other clubs not to bother placing bids for the player because his destination is Madrid.