Argentine striker Javier Saviola is poised to join Real Madrid, according to the Spanish champions' new coach Bernd Schuster.

The 25-year-old international ended his six-year stay with Barcelona at the end of last season, turning down the club's offer of a new contract.

''Javier Saviola is going to be with us. I approve and he is also very enthusiastic to come,'' Schuster was quoted as telling Punto Radio in Spanish media on Wednesday.

"He is a goalscorer, he's young but he has already played a number of years at the top level. I think he has a lot to offer this club."

Saviola joined Barca from River Plate for 28 million dollars in 2001, but dropped down the pecking order when Frank Rijkaard took over as coach in 2003.

Following loan spells with Monaco and Sevilla he returned to Barcelona last season but he rarely played in the first team.

Saviola could be unveiled on Friday, after defenders Christoph Metzelder and Pepe complete their moves to Real.