Higuain has been in the spotlight in both Argentina and France this week after he was called up to the France squad for Wednesday's friendly with Greece.

Born in France to Argentine parents and a dual French and Argentine passport holder, Higuain grew up mostly in Argentina and has yet to decide which country he wants to play for.

He turned down Raymond Domenech's call-up to Les Bleus mainly because River Plate are in the closing stages of the Argentine championship.

His French passport meanwhile would facilitate any move to a European club, and Real Madrid appear to be first in line to take advantage.

The 18-year-old player's father Jorge Higuain told local radio: "Representatives from Real Madrid will be arriving at the end of the week to try and finalise the deal.

"We're waiting for more information (from the clubs) but there's no denying it is a big opportunity for both parties. We have to take it seriously."

Real are hoping to sign Higuain ahead of the winter transfer window, meaning he would be available to play in the Primera Liga as of January.

However River Plate are hoping to hold on to the player until after the Copa Libertadores -- South America's version of the European Championships -- which take place in June 2007.

After snubbing France, Domenech appeared to send a less welcome invitation to Higuain.

"It's now up to him to prove his talent. He's only 18 years old," said Domenech, who cheekily challenged the player to show him he is not a flash in the pan.

"I've known plenty of young talented players. Players who have done great over two months, then disappeared.

"To get a second chance, he (Higuain) will have to show that he deserves it." Jorge Higuain said he was confident his son would be selected again.

However he pleaded for patience on the part of Les Bleus.

"They will call him up again, and when they do we will talk (with the France management)," said Higuain senior.

"Gonzalo doesn't even speak French. He doesn't know the France set-up personally and right now he's concentrating on finishing the league championship with River.

"He's only 18 years old and he's still not mature enough to be able to reason like an experienced professional."