One of the main stars of this summer’s World Cup in South Africa was German youngster Mesut Ozil. The Werder Bremen playmaker has become one of Europe’s hottest properties since the tournament ended.

Bundesliga Betting pundits note how all of Europe’s usual suspects have been keen to sign the 21 year old, who is entering the final year of his contract at Bremen. The club had a good campaign last season, finishing third in the Bundesliga.

Ozil signaled his intentions to leave by turning down a new contract from the German club. Bremen are likely to consider offers the midfielder, rather than risk losing him on a free transfer next year, but they have already rejected an offer from Real. That offer was deemed to be “unacceptable” by Bremen.

It looks as though the race is between Manchester United, Real Madrid and Barcelona as the transfer deadline looms ever nearer. The price for Ozil according to La liga betting pundits is reported to be around the £12-15million mark, a steep figure for a player who will be free next year.

News of Real’s offer has excited Ozil and he has signaled that Madrid is his first choice. Manchester United had been thought to have been close to sealing the deal but it now appears the player has set his sights on Spain. Ozil has made his frustrations clear over Bremen’s rejection of Real’s offer.

The club is looking to start an auction for their prized asset, who only cost them £3.5million from Schalke in 2008. Barcelona may turn their attentions to Ozil after missing out on first choice target Cesc Fabregas, who will stay with Arsenal for this season at least.