Hebei China Fortune 'lead Pepe race'

Gareth Bale celebrates with Pepe during the game between Real Madrid and Deportivo La Coruna on January 9, 2016
© Getty Images
A report claims that Chinese Super League side Hebei China Fortune are at the head of the queue for Real Madrid centre-back Pepe.

Hebei China Fortune are reportedly at the head of the queue for Real Madrid centre-back Pepe.

The 33-year-old, who remains a key figure at the Bernabeu, is approaching the final six months of his deal with Los Blancos and will be free to discuss terms with foreign clubs in the January transfer window.

It is understood that the Portuguese international is looking for a two-year extension, but Real Madrid are only prepared to offer a new 12-month deal, which has led to a breakdown in talks.

Speculation linking the defender with a move to the Chinese Super League gathered pace earlier this week and according to reports in Spain, Hebei China Fortune are showing the strongest interest.

The Chinese club are currently managed by former Man City boss Manuel Pellegrini and have already signed the likes of Gael Kakuta, Stephane Mbia, Gervinho and Ezequiel Lavezzi.

Gonzalo Higuain celebrates scoring during the Serie A game between Fiorentina and Napoli on February 29, 2016
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TeamPWDLFAGDPTS
1Real Madrid15114040142637
2Barcelona16104241162534
3Sevilla16103332211133
4Villarreal1685325111429
5Real Sociedad169252821729
6Atletico MadridAtletico1684429141528
7Athletic Bilbao168262219326
8EibarEibar166552220223
9Espanyol165742022-222
10Las PalmasLas Palmas165652624221
11Malaga165652526-121
12AlavesAlaves165651517-221
13Celta Vigo166372531-621
14Real Betis165381829-1118
15Deportivo La CorunaDeportivo164482227-516
16Leganes164481327-1416
17Valencia153392129-812
18Sporting GijonSporting Gijon1633101733-1612
19Granada161691433-199
20Osasuna1614111334-217
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