According to reports from Spain, Real have identified the 21-year-old Sunderland-born left-sided midfielder as a potential target.
Johnson has made 69 appearances for the club since being handed his senior debut in a UEFA Cup tie at Sporting Lisbon in 2005, but has started only three games to date this season and played in seven more as a substitute.
Hardly the credentials for Real Madrid, is it?
Real Madrid After Boro Star?
Former Tottenham boss Juande Ramos is their new coach, and he has apparently shown an interest.
Boro boss Gareth Southgate has seen a number of his players, including Downing, Mido and Tuncay Sanli, all linked with moves away from the Riverside Stadium.