Real Madrid reach agreement in principle with 'next Sergio Ramos'

Real Madrid needed to sign a centre-back this summer and Leny Yoro was believed to be their top target in that position. Los Blancos failed in their quest to sign the Frenchman though, as he ended up joining Manchester United instead. The club were also linked with the likes of Riccardo Calafiori and Aaron Anselmino but they signed with Arsenal and Chelsea respectively.

Real Madrid are a team who have shown that they will not sign a player just for the sake of it. So, they did not sign a centre-back this summer despite Nacho Fernandez's exit and David Alaba's wait to return from injury.

Instead, it looked like the club were ready to work with the options they already had. And that was set to open up a window of opportunity for Joan Martinez.

Martinez has been dubbed the 'next Sergio Ramos'. Unfortunately for him, he suffered an ACL injury just when it looked like he was on the verge of breaking into Carlo Ancelotti's plans and had to undergo surgery. He will be out of action for the foreseeable future but that has not stopped Real Madrid from offering him a long-term contract.

Real Madrid reach agreement in principle with 'next Sergio Ramos'

As reported by The Athletic, Real Madrid have reached an agreement in principle with Martinez over the renewal of his contract. The proposal is for a three-year deal with the option to extend it further if certain sporting targets are met. It is also set to include a €50 million release clause.

So, it is quite clear that Real Madrid still view Martinez as part of their future despite his injury. It remains to be seen how long he is out of action.

One issue Real Madrid have faced over the years is their inability to promote their youngsters to the senior team. Will Martinez prove to be an exception?