Werder Bremen playmaker Mesut Ozil is optimistic about joining Real Madrid after learning of the Spanish giants' interest in him.

The Germany international turned down a new contract offer at the Weserstadion, and has only 12 months left to run on his current deal.

Werder, therefore, are likely to consider bids for Ozil this summer rather than risk losing him on a free transfer next year, but they have already turned down one offer from Real.

It is any footballer's dream to play for the biggest teams in Europe.
Werder Bremen's Mesut Ozil amid interest from Real Madrid

However, the 21-year-old, who has also been strongly linked with Manchester United this summer, now has his heart set on a move to Spain.

"When you have such an opportunity like this, then you want to take it," he said after his side's 4-0 win over Ahlen in the DFB-Pokal yesterday. "It is any footballer's dream to play for the biggest teams in Europe."

Ozil only found out about Real's offer when he heard about it on television on Friday night, and is disappointed Werder did not inform him, even though they rejected it out of hand.

"I was very sad about that," he said. "I have said that to (director of sport) Mr (Klaus) Allofs."