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Everton battling Leeds in shock race for bargain Real Madrid stalwart

Reports claim Premier League duo Everton and Leeds United are in the hunt to sign Real Madrid defender Marcelo during the summer transfer window.

The 33-year-old is set to leave the Bernabeu before the start of next season after seeing his game time diminish. The former Brazil international has made 528 appearances in all competitions for Los Blancos, 374 of them in the league. But he was only seen on 16 occasions during 2020-2021, making 12 starts.

Marcelo has just one year left on his current Real contract and, due to his age, will not be too expensive. It is thought that the capital giants will ask for around £5m for the South American veteran.

New Real boss Carlo Ancelotti has been tipped to bring in a new left-back. That means the ex- Fluminense ace’s days at the club are numbered and he may be heading to England.

His agents are said to be actively seeking new employers for the Rio de Janeiro-born stopper. And it is thought he would prefer to continue his career in England.

Everton are still without a manager after Ancelotti’s decision to re-join Real. But the Toffees are said to be at the front of the queue for his signature.

Whether that was before Ancelotti’s departure is unknown but Leeds also hold an interest. It seems as though his age has not put off Marcelo Bielsa, who is looking to build on the Whites’ success.

They returned to the Premier League after 16 years last year and finished a creditable ninth. It will be tough to maintain those standards and the Argentinian manager is looking for quality additions to his ranks.

Marcelo to demand two-year deal

The man who made 58 Brazil appearances will turn 34 in May next year but can still do a decent job. However, many clubs would look to sign such a player on a 12-month deal and review it after the first year.

But, according to The Mirror, Marcelo has asked for a minimum two-year contract at any club who takes him on. That might be an issue, especially with budgets tight due to the pandemic.

The club that does land the star will be gaining a decorated footballer, who has won most things. He has won LaLiga on five occasions and twice lifted the Copa del Rey.

Add to that four Champions League winner’s medals and it is clear he has achieved more than most in the game. It appears as though he is not done quite yet, however, and would love to taste English football.

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