Real Madrid striker Gonzalo Higuain could make a surprising return to action in April and may line up against arch rivals Barcelona.
The Argentina forward's season was believed to be over after the 23-year-old underwent an operation on his back at the start of the year.
However, Higuain is making great progress on the treatment table and could make a return much sooner than the Spanish giants originally expected.
Real made a move in the loan market for Manchester City striker Emmanuel Adebayor as cover, but Higuain could be back in time for the crucial El Clasico clash on April 20.
The former River Plate star has refused to announce a date for his return but he is pleased with his recovery.
He said: "The other day somebody told me that recoveries are made faster if you have a target.
"Dreaming about your return, how to mark it? How to celebrate it? That improves a player physically and emotionally."