fabio capello wants to sign Diarra (Allsport)

LYON, Aug 17 (SW) - Mahamadou Diarra has announced that he is desperate to leave Lyon and join Real Madrid.

Diarra has attracted interest from several of Europe’s leading clubs, but has now revealed in an interview that he is angry with Lyon president Jean-Michel Aulas because he has demanded a large transfer fee for the midfielder.

"I'm not sure if he realizes what an opportunity this is. I can't stand the idea of denying me this chance, by demanding US$45 million just to sit down at the negotiating table," said the Mali international.

The 25 year old added, "In my head, it's clear. I want to join Real (Madrid), I told (Aulas) I wanted to go to Real. Lyon is not listening. I can't take it any more."

Lyon have been reluctant to let Diarra leave the club after the departure of Michael Essien to Chelsea, but Fabio Capello is thought to be an admirer of the midfielder and may make another offer before the transfer deadline.