France legend Zinedine Zidane has urged Real Madrid to sign highly-rated Troyes youngster Sega Keita before other potential suitors step in to hijack a future deal.

'Zizou', who now works as a consultant for Los Blancos, has reportedly informed Real officials to consider buying the talented 17-year-old despite the player featuring in just five senior games.

Keita is currently playing for Troyes, who are plying their trade in the third tier of French football, but the Senegal-born playmaker has been widely tipped to make it to very top such is his talent.

He only recently signed a new contract at the Stade de l'Aube until 2012 and, having declared himself available to play for France, he has already been called up to the Under-18 squad.

The Daily Mirror reported on Saturday that Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger is keeping close tabs on the player, who will no doubt attract even more attention following Zidane's endorsement.

It is thought several of Europe's eltic have already watched the midfielder, with Italian rivals AC Milan and Inter Milan among those said to be watching developments with interest.

Troyes have failed to receive an official offer for Keita, but they are more than aware that the increased interest will certainly prompt a bidding war in January if not the end of the season.