Tug of war between Madrid and Atlético for Mario Hermoso

The player currently belongs to Espanyol, but Real Madrid have a buyback option as well as a clause that would see them earn 50% of any future sale of the Spain international.

Atlético Madrid are the team most interested in his signing but, according to 'Goal', 'Los Blancos' are considering activating his buyback clause to ensure he doesn't make a move to the Wanda Metropolitano.

It is not clear what Real Madrid would then do with the defender, who has a release clause of 40 million euros, as many assume that he would not feature in Zidane's plans for next season.

It remains to be seen what will happen with the player this summer then, as Atlético will almost certainly make a move for the defender that hinges on their rivals' decision on activating his buyback clause. Espanyol, meanwhile, await any offers eagerly, knowing they are set to make a sizeable profit on their star defender.