Real Madrid set to sign Mariano from Lyon -report

Real Madrid are set to sign attacker Mariano Diaz back from Lyon, according to reports from MARCA, As and El Chiringuito. Los Blancos will match Sevilla’s €40 million offer, although they will only pay around €25 million for the player given that they still own 35% of his rights.

Mariano has been keen on a return to the Spanish capital ever since he joined Lyon. He had a solid debut season with the French club and seems to be a good choice to have a deeper squad.

“You just can’t say no to Real Madrid,” tweeted Mariano while linking a report suggesting that he is not willing to be Benzema’s backup.

Real Madrid kept a right to match any official offer for Mariano, and while they weren’t willing to spend the €70 million Lyon were hoping to get for the attacker, they ultimately decided to give the attacker a chance once Sevilla sent their offer.

It seems that he will be a reserve, especially now that Benzema has started the season in great form. Mariano proved himself as a quality player during his first season with Lyon, so he will be useful off the bench when Los Blancos need more firepower upfront.