Real Madrid retain control over 24-year-old Serie A defender’s future amid strong Manchester United interest

Real Madrid retain control over 24-year-old Serie A defender’s future amid strong Manchester United interest In recent days, there has been a lot of talk surrounding the future of Manchester United star Lisandro Martinez, especially with the Argentine being linked with a surprise move to Barcelona . This naturally suggests that Man United could be bracing themselves for some a winter of change, with the club potentially looking for a new centre-back. One of the players Man United are looking at is former Real Madrid centre-back Rafa Marin, who is having a wonderful time at Napoli. Man United interested in Marin According to MARCA , the Premier League giants have set their sights on the Spaniard as they look to shore up their defensive unit heading into the January transfer window. Marin is doing well at Napoli. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images) Marin has been flourishing at Napoli since joining the club and has particularly performed well under the leadership of Massimiliano Allegri. The 24-year-old has impressed onlookers with his imposing presence at the back, which is coupled with his defensive discipline, making him an exciting option for a struggling club like Manchester United. Marin was linked with a move to the Premier League in the summer, with an unnamed club willing to offer €30 million. But the move was blocked by Napoli. Real Madrid hold the cards Despite Manchester United’s interest, though, there is not much the Premier League clubs can do as far as their pursuit of Marin is concerned. Real Madrid can always re-sign Marin. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images) That is because Real Madrid hold an important buyback clause in Marin’s deal with Napoli, which would let the club re-sign the player for just €35 million. The figure was just €25 million last summer but Real Madrid opted against utiltising the clause. Even now, though, Real Madrid are not necessarily thinking about bringing back the Spaniard. However, since the club do not have a sell-on fee included in Marin’s Napoli contract, Real Madrid could consider bringing him back and sell him just to earn a quick profit. In that case, Manchester United may have to negotiate with Real Madrid instead of Napoli, provided he is ruled out of Jose Mourinho’s plans.