Real Madrid trailing Barcelona in race for Racing Santander’s teenage sensation | OneFootball

Real Madrid’s midfield ambitions have been left relatively unfulfilled this summer after Rodri’s rejection, and Bernardo Silva remains the only meaningful addition to the department.

The coming weeks will likely not see Los Blancos sign any new midfielders, as the club does not see any option on the market to be worth the hassle.

Moreover, Jose Mourinho affirms that he has full faith in the squad at his disposal and that he does not need any new additions.

While they may not sign any new elite players in the department, SPORT bring to light that Los Blancos are eyeing young talents for the department and that one player has their attention.

Eyes on Racing Santander

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As relayed by the Spanish outlet, Real Madrid have shown interest in Racing Santander’s teenage midfielder Sergio Martinez and have followed him as an option to pounce on this summer.

The young defender is referred to as a high-quality talent who has impeccable ball control and tactical awareness while also having the physicality needed to dominate in midfield.

Further, he has improved a lot on his defensive contributions in recent times and is an able option to play as a defensive midfielder.

For Real Madrid, he would be a great addition and long-term buy given how the club are lacking in that very department.

As matters stand, however, Barcelona are leading the race to sign him and are ahead of the men in white.

Complicated negotiations

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In addition to Barcelona posing a key threat, Real Madrid also face the hurdle of Racing Santander themselves in their hunt for the midfielder. After all, Martinez’s current employers are not making matters simple.

Having renewed the player recently until 2029, they are demanding his release clause of €3 million for a transfer this summer.

Further, they ask for a big sell-on percentage, effectively defeating the purpose of a transfer should the player not make the jump to the first team.

Should Real Madrid go on to sign him, it also remains to be seen if he is recruited for a place in the Castilla side or the first team. The former is more likely given the lack of spots in the senior side.