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Isco hits out at media 'invention' after being linked with Barcelona

Real Madrid playmaker Isco said the media "have to invent things" after reports suggested he could join Barcelona on a free transfer next year.

Isco, 24, has just over 12 months left on his contract and indicated that he will consider his future at the end of the season amid a lack of regular playing time.

Reports have claimed Chelsea's Eden Hazard has been lined up as a replacement.

And Catalan radio station RAC1 reported last week that Barcelona had offered Isco's representatives a €20 million signing bonus if he joined on a free.

But Isco told reporters: "We players are used to rumours, especially when there is less football during the international break, but I don't know why some media have to invent things.

"I speak on the pitch and try to do the best I can for my team."

Meanwhile, Marca reported that Madrid president Florentino Perez had authorised a new contract offer for Isco and the club hoped it would be accepted.

Isco's future could be connected to the reported interest in Hazard, with Marca reporting that the Belgium international has decided he wants to move to Madrid and work with coach Zinedine Zidane.