Pepe, 34, is out of contract at the end of the season but wants to remain at Real, who he joined from Porto in 2007.

The Portugal international, who scored in Los Blancos' 1-1 draw with Atletico Madrid on Saturday and fractured two ribs, said in AS: "Only God knows where my future lies.

"Until June 30 I am under contract at Real Madrid, isn't that right 'presi' [signals to club president Florentino Perez]?

Pepe has made 15 La Liga appearances this season, scoring two goals.

"As I've said before, I will wait for Madrid until the last second, and I will make sacrifices every day to be able to stay here".

Perez said of the centre-back: "Pepe is an example both on and off the field -- he carries Real Madrid in his heart.

"He has won every trophy there is to win twice during his 10 years at the club: two Champions Leagues, two Leagues, two Club World Cups... I only have words of admiration and respect; he does everything that is humanly possible to ensure that Real Madrid fans are happy and united as one."

Real defender Nacho added: "I haven't enough time to even begin describing him, I only want to thank him for everything I have learned from him."