Espanyol have had a difficult season so far but they can give themselves the best chance of avoiding the drop if they take advantage of a strong winter transfer window. They should be busy and the first deal is already close to being done.

A new centre-back is on the agenda for the Pericos and they have identified Pablo Ramon as their main target. According to Diario AS, an agreement has been reached with Real Madrid.

Espanyol will not pay a transfer fee for Ramon, of which they will receive 50% of the royalties. This means Real Madrid will receive a 50% buy-back clause, a clause they have used frequently in recent years to sell their academy players.

Ramon is set to be the first of a series of signings to arrive at the Front Stage this month. Espanyol are also said to be targeting a new striker, with Alejo Veliz expected to leave Tottenham Hotspur.