Diarra close to Monaco move

Diarra: Poised to join Monaco

Real Madrid midfielder Mahamadou Diarra is poised to complete a switch to struggling French side Monaco.

Monaco, currently second bottom of Ligue 1, have confirmed Diarra will fly into the principality on Thursday night before undergoing a medical and wrapping up a permanent switch, which has been agreed between the clubs.

"Real Madrid and AS Monaco have agreed the transfer of the player Mahamadou Diarra," said Real in a brief statement on the club's official website.

"The agreement is dependent of the player passing a medical exam, as well as the signing of the contract with his new club."

The transfer will signal the end of a largely unhappy four years at the Bernabeu for 29-year-old Diarra, who joined Spanish giants Real from Lyon in 2006.

The midfielder has struggled to win over the club's fans and coaches, and has yet to start a match under manager Jose Mourinho this season.

Diarra will be seeking a fresh start at floundering Monaco, who are in a relegation battle this term.