Real Madrid keeping close watch on former defender with €25m buyback clause amid growing defensive woes | OneFootball

According to reports from AS, Real Madrid are following the development of their former academy defender Rafa Marin very closely after his impressive season in La Liga with Villarreal.

Although Marin technically belongs to Napoli, the situation remains more complicated than a standard transfer because Real Madrid still retain several important rights linked to the player’s future.

The Spanish defender joined Napoli from Real Madrid before later moving to Villarreal on loan in search of regular playing time. 

That decision now appears to have worked perfectly for both the player and the clubs involved.

After struggling to establish himself in Italy, Marin has rebuilt his reputation strongly in Spain and delivered a season that has once again reminded people why Real Madrid rated him so highly during his academy years.

Interestingly, at a moment where the club urgently need defensive reinforcements, his progress is becoming impossible to ignore.

Real Madrid retain important control

Real Madrid are keeping tabs on Rafa Marin. (Photo by Gualter Fatia/Getty Images)

When Real Madrid negotiated Marin’s departure to Napoli, they ensured they maintained significant influence over any future operation involving the defender.

According to the report, the Spanish giants secured two separate buy-back clauses as part of the agreement. 

One would allow Real Madrid to re-sign him this summer for around €25 million, while another option next year would rise to €35 million.

In addition, Napoli are obligated to inform Real Madrid about any major negotiations involving the player before finalising deals with other clubs.

That means the connection between Marin and Real Madrid remains very much alive.

On the other hand, Villarreal’s current loan agreement also includes a €12 million purchase option, although there is no obligation forcing the Spanish side to complete the transfer permanently.

Real Madrid need defensive depth

Real Madrid still have buyback options for the defender. (Photo by Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images)

At Real Madrid, strengthening their defensive depth has become a strong priority for the club due to multiple factors.

To begin with, Antonio Rudiger is expected to stay for another season, but concerns continue surrounding the long-term situation of several other defenders. 

David Alaba is approaching the end of his contract cycle, while uncertainty also exists regarding Raul Asencio.

On top of that, Eder Militao has once again suffered major injury problems despite remaining one of the defensive leaders inside the squad.

That combination of instability has forced Real Madrid to seriously rethink their centre-back planning for the coming years, which is where Marin’s familiarity with Real Madrid can play a big role.