Rafa Marín is set to return to Real Madrid after an impressive season on loan at Deportivo Alavés, opening up new possibilities for his future. Real Madrid are initially considering integrating him into the first-team squad next season, but if Nacho Fernández extends his stay, Marín’s chances of breaking into the first team may be limited.

According to reports from TodoFichajes, Bayer Leverkusen are interested in signing the defender. Having just won the Bundesliga title, the German club’s sporting director is looking to strengthen the squad and Marín is one of the options they are considering.

Xabi Alonso, a former Real Madrid player and current Bayer Leverkusen manager, is reportedly a big admirer of Marín and has directly recommended his signing. The club believes they need more depth in defense and a loan deal with an option to buy is the most likely scenario at this stage. However, no formal offer has been made yet.