Wigan Athletic chairman Dave Whelan has confirmed that a third, as yet unnamed club has entered the race to sign Antonio Valencia.
The Ecuador international is poised to leave The Latics this summer after outgrowing his surroundings and Whelan recently confirmed that United had been in talks as they seek a replacement for Cristiano Ronaldo.
Real, who have agreed a world record £80 million transfer fee for Ronaldo, are long-term admirers of Valencia and are also believed to have made an offer in the region of £17 million.
It was expected that Valencia would be heading to either Old Trafford or the Bernabeu but Whelan has now stated that a third club has requested talks with the player and his agent.
Liverpool have been linked with the player in the past and Rafa Benitez is expected to reinforce his wide options this summer.
Valencia initially joined Wigan on loan from Villarreal following the 2006 World Cup when he was on the shortlist to be named young player of the tournament.
A permanent deal was completed in January 2008 and The Latics are now on the brink of making a huge profit on the 23-year-old winger.