Real Madrid are reportedly “very close” to selling Diego Llorente to Real Sociedad for €8m, while Mariano Diaz could join Malaga on loan.

Llorente’s move has been confirmed by Marca and Diario Sur to be on the verge of completion, although Madrid want to retain a buyback option for the defender.

The 23-year-old has impressed in each of his loan spells at Rayo Vallecano and Malaga over the past two seasons, culminating in a Spain cap last May.

La Real, for their part, “like” the player “very much”, hence their willingness to sanction one of their biggest-ever transfers.

Central defence is also a priority area for the Basques to strengthen, with Mikel Gonzalez set to end his career-long link with the club this summer.

Mariano, meanwhile, is the “favourite” to reinforce Malaga’s front line, reports Marca.

Sandro Ramirez, Charles and Michael Santos appear certain to depart La Rosaleda, potentially leaving the Andalusians short in attack.

The 23-year-old scored five goals for Madrid last season, but just one of them came in eight League appearances, leaving him to agree with Coach Zinedine Zidane that a spell away on loan is best for his development.

Malaga tried – but failed – to sign Mariano last summer, but the presence of Blancos legend Michel Gonzalez in their hot-seat makes a deal likely.

Tags Diego Llorente Mariano Diaz
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