Stuttgart have revealed that midfielder Sami Khedira is poised to join Real Madrid (4/1 to win 2010-11 Champions League), after the two clubs agreed a deal.

The 23-year-old impressed during the recent World Cup in South Africa, when he played a big role in helping Germany reach the semi-finals.

After hearing of Real’s interest, Khedira had expressed an interest to move to the Bernabeu and Stuttgart ‘reluctantly’ allowed him to leave.

The German club’s managing director Fredi Bobic accepted: “We can understand Sami’s wish to further his career at Real. We wish him great success with his new challenge in Madrid.”

Khedira, who came through the ranks at his home town club Stuttgart (20/1 to win 2010-11 Bundesliga), is set to become Real’s second major capture of the summer, since the arrival of Jose Morinho

The new coach has already made his stamp on the squad, with the capture of Angel di Maria from Benfica and the departures of veteran duo Raul and Guti.

More new signings are expected to follow soon, with the likes of Inter Milan full-back Maicon and Juventus striker Amauri.

Meanwhile, the Spanish giants have arrived in the US for their North American pre-season tour and Cristiano Ronaldo says the squad is feeling upbeat.

The Portuguese ace said: “We are very excited and working very hard. We have to keep this level of excitement up in order to win titles.”

Ronaldo has been handed the number seven shirt this season, after it was vacated by Raul’s departure.

The former Manchester United man has been full of praise for the Spain striker, who he describes as “a great professional”.

Ronaldo added: “I would like to have the number 7 shirt and I’m sure Raul would be happy if I had it because he knows how I am and how I think.”

Real (Evs to win 2010-11 La Liga) will play their next pre-season friendly on Wednesday, when they come up against Mexican outfit Club America.

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