Real Madrid and Atletico set to be hit by FIFA transfer bans

Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid will be hit with FIFA transfer bans in a matter of days.

The world football governing body has informed the RFEF of their intention to punish the Madrid clubs, as revealed by Cadena COPE and Cadena SER on Tuesday night.

The sanction will prevent both clubs from signing players for two windows, like the ban that Barcelona are currently suffering. The reason is the same as for Barcelona's punishment - the transfer of minors. 

Both clubs will receive official confirmation of the bans shortly, while other clubs like Villarreal are rumoured to be also at risk of being sanctioned.

SPORT explained in January that both sides were being investigated. 

Around 70 players were under investigation at Madrid, although not all of them are expected to be illegally transfered.

Emilio Butragueno, head of institutional relations said: "We are absolutely calm with the proceedures of Madrid."

The signings of Lucas Silva, Martin Odegaard and Marco Asensio, followed by Danilo, implied that Madrid were aware they may be banned from future transfers.

Iker Casillas could be affected by a transfer ban - the club want David de Gea but if they cannot sign him then the veteran seems likely to stay on at Madrid.

They may choose to appeal the ban and take it to the Court of Arbitration for Sport, like Barcelona did. 

If that happens, Madrid may have the whole summer to make transfers in, while the matter is deliberated over.