Despite their ongoing La Liga and Champions League campaigns, Real Madrid are already planning for the summer transfer window, and it appears they have their first signing lined up.

The Blancos, who have already secured the signing of Brazilian wunderkind Endrick, are reportedly close to bringing back young defender Rafa Marin, according to AS. Marin, who spent time in the youth setups of Sevilla FC and Real Madrid, joined Deportivo Alavés on loan last summer to gain more playing time.

The move has proved fruitful for the 21-year-old center-back, who has made over 30 appearances for the Basque club, mostly as a starter. His impressive performances have reportedly convinced Real Madrid to bring him back to the Santiago Bernabéu.

Marin is expected to become the fourth center-back in Carlo Ancelotti’s squad, providing depth and competition alongside Eder Militao, David Alaba, and Jesús Vallejo. The return of Marin also comes at a time when veteran defender Nacho is nearing the end of his contract.