Real Madrid accused of approach to 15-year-old Brazilian

Brazilian club Vasco da Gama have accused Real Madrid of making an offer to 15-year-old player Philippe Coutinho and say they are reporting the matter to world soccer's governing body FIFA.

"Real Madrid went to the player's family and made very tempting but illegal offers," Vasco president Eurico Miranda told reporters.

"We have reported Real Madrid to FIFA for their approach to our player Philippe Coutinho.

"Coutinho is only 15 and the FIFA rules are clear, transfers outside the country are only allowed for 18-year-olds.

"They try to get around the law by taking those responsible for the player to live and work abroad.

"They offer a job to the father and take the player. But they're not doing that here at Vasco."

La Liga: A. Madrid vs Barcelona 4-2; Deportivo vs Sevilla 2-1; Rec. Huelva vs Real Madrid 2-3.

Leading standings: Real Madrid 59; Barcelona 54; Villarreal 46; Atl. Madrid 44; Sevilla, Espanyol 39.