Real Madrid striker Mariano Diaz has reportedly emerged as a transfer target for La Liga side Real Valladolid.
According to Ramon Alvarez de Mon on YouTube, as relayed by Defensa Central, newly-promoted La Liga club Real Valladolid are interested in signing out-of-favour Real Madrid striker Mariano Diaz this summer.
Mariano’s second stint at Real Madrid, following his return from Olympique Lyon in 2018, has been one to forget. The striker has struggled to stay relevant in the plans of the managers he has played under since, playing a largely peripheral role. The 28-year-old played just 11 times across all competitions last season, of which only three were La Liga starts.
Real Madrid are running the risk of going into the season without any natural backup for superstar striker Karim Benzema. Indeed, Los Blancos have already let go of Luka Jovic, who has joined Fiorentina, and Borja Mayoral is closing in on a transfer to Getafe. At the same time, they are ready to part ways with Mariano as well.
The 28-year-old had attracted interest from Turkish giants Fenerbahce, but a move fell through due to his wage demands. Since then, the striker has been reluctant to listen to any offers on the table and is looking to stay at the club and see out his contract.
However, there may have been a change of stance recently, with Mariano now again believed to be open to an exit if the right offer comes along. And Real Valladolid have presented themselves as an option for the Dominican striker.
Having earned a promotion to La Liga, the Pucelas are looking to strengthen their roster to ensure their survival in the Spanish top flight in the upcoming campaign. Owned by former Real Madrid striker and football legend Ronaldo, Valladolid have a good relationship with the Merengues and are looking to utilise that to bolster their ranks.
Real Valladolid have already approached Real Madrid over a possible loan deal for Reinier Jesus, with Mariano Diaz now emerging as a target. The 28-year-old has just a year left on his contract and could be available for a nominal fee, while the Pucelas could also look to sign him on loan for a season before securing his services permanently next year on a free transfer.
Real Madrid are open to offloading Mariano. The ball lies in the striker’s court now, and it remains to be seen what he decides in the coming weeks.