Real Madrid utility man Nacho is reportedly ready to part ways with the Spanish club in the summer transfer window.
According to a report by Spanish outlet MARCA, Nacho has decided to leave Real Madrid as a free agent in the summer transfer window. The Spanish utility man has entered the final three months of his contract and has informed Los Blancos that he wants to depart from the Santiago Bernabeu as a free agent.
Nacho and his illustrious Real Madrid career
Jose Ignacio Fernandez Iglesias, better known as Nacho, has been a dependable backup option for Real Madrid for over a decade. The 34-year-old has never been a first-choice defender in any position despite possessing the ability to play across the backline with consummate ease. However, that quality has made him a handy player for his managers.
Nacho’s versatility has also helped him turn out 24 times for the Spanish national side, having represented his nation as a right-back and a centre-back. Meanwhile, the veteran defender has turned out over 350 times thus far for Real Madrid, chipping in with 16 goals and nine assists.
However, Nacho’s long-term Real Madrid future has been uncertain for several months due to his contract situation. The Spaniard has entered the final three months of his deal, with talks over new terms not progressing. While recent reports suggested the Merengues were close to announcing renewals for the veteran defender and Lucas Vazquez, that is not the case.
Bernabeu departure on the cards?
The latest development comes as a blow to Real Madrid’s hopes of retaining Nacho’s services beyond the summer transfer window. The 24-cap Spanish international has informed the club’s decision-makers that he wants to depart from the Santiago Bernabeu after his contract expires.
So, Nacho will end his long association with Real Madrid, having been at the club since childhood. He should not have a shortage of suitors, with several high-profile clubs, particularly in Serie A, keen on signing the Spaniard in a Bosman move.
With Nacho seemingly set to become a free agent in the summer transfer window, several cash-strapped Serie A bigwigs should line up for his signature, with his versatility making him an attractive target despite his advancing years.
