PORTSMOUTH - PORTSMOUTH says it has accepted a substantial bid from Real Madrid for midfielder Lassana Diarra.

The Premier Club says it has given the 23-year-old France international permission to speak with the Spanish powerhouse.

A spokesman said on Portsmouth's website on Wednesday that the club could not stand in the way of such a move for Diarra.

The club says it has already identified possible replacements for Diarra should the transfer go through.

Spanish media have reported that Madrid will pay 10 million euro (S$19 million) for Diarra.

Madrid is looking for a defensive midfielder to replace Mali international Mahamadou Diarra, who is sidelined for the season after undergoing knee surgery. -- AP