Cristiano Ronaldo ‘urges’ Juventus to complete Real Madrid star Marcelo transfer

JUVENTUS are to push for Real Madrid left-back Marcelo in a transfer deal backed by Cristiano Ronaldo, say reports in Spain.

Officials from the Old Lady are said to have planned a trip to Madrid over the spring to gauge a deal with the player’s representatives.

That was cancelled due to the coronavirus pandemic but Juve remain an interested follower of the Brazilian, according to Marca.

They claim that ex-Real star Ronaldo is keen to see Marcelo follow him to Turin with Maurizio Sarri also an admirer of his work.

The coach is seeking a new left-back to compete with Alex Sandro and the 31-year-old is seen as an ideal candidate.

What’s more, Los Blancos coach Zinedine Zidane has moved towards summer signing Ferland Mendy as his first-choice down the flank this season.

Marcelo, who has a contract to 2022, suffered neck and calf injuries earlier in the campaign to reach only 19 appearances so far – putting him on course for one of his quietest seasons since joining in 2006.

Reportedly on the table at Juventus is a four-year deal.

Back in the Spanish capital, Ronaldo and Marcelo were known to be good friends who shared a strong working relationship down the left wing.

After playing his first season in Italy, the 35-year-old attacker admitted he missed his old companion when speaking last summer.

Ronaldo stated: “I got along very well with him. I talk a lot with him.

“Marcelo is a very lively boy and I miss him.”