Pompey chief executive Peter Storrie admitted that he has opened talks with the Spanish champions for the 27-year-old's services.

Despite his confidence that Saviola could arrive at Fratton Park, Storrie conceded that the nature of the deal would be determined by manager Tony Adams.

"I've been working on a couple of targets today - and he has been looked at. I have had quite a lot of discussions with Real," he said on Saturday.

"I'm sure there's a deal to be done but it will be down to Tony to decide if he wants to take that forward."

Portsmouth are hoping to make up for the unplanned departure of striker Jermain Defoe to Tottenham, whilst Real are ready to offload Saviola.