Brazilian international Marcelo's time at Real Madrid drawing to an end

At 31, 32 by the end of the season, Marcelo's Real Madrid form has dropped off. Last season he began to lose his place in the team and this season he has, replaced following the arrival of French international Ferland Mendy. 

Until now, the Brazilian left-back had always been the first choice due to his quality, but his declining fitness has now placed his future at the club in doubt. Mendy is a safe bet in a defensive sense, while Marcelo was always best in the attack. 

However, the return of Zinedine Zidane shortly after put the brakes on that potential transfer. 

Madrid are aware this could now be the best moment to sell Marcelo. He has a contract until 2022 and a release clause of 200 million euros. 

The club feel they are well prepared for his departure. They are happy with Mendy and also have Reguilon out on loan at Sevilla doing well. 

Marcelo joined Real Madrid for the 2006-07 season, signing from Flamengo when he was just 18 years old. Then-president Ramon Calderon paid 6.5 million euros for him.