Real Madrid round-up: Lunin, Martial, Modric, Vinicius
Our daily look at what's happening in and around Los Blancos as week two of pre-season training gets underway for Lopetegui's squad...
Monday 23 July sees the Real Madrid squad - at least those that are not still enjoying a little R&R on holiday - return to pre-season training after a day off. Let's have a look at some of the wider stories doing the rounds...
There's a new Lunin town*
Andriy Lunin was presented to the Madrid fans and gathered media this lunchtime. The 19-year-old goalkeeper watched a montage of his best saves, listened to his new club president say some kind words, and then made a speech of his own. After the suited formalities, the player headed out onto the famous turf to throw some balls into the crowd.
Martial law for Hazard sale
With the ongoing saga linking Real Madrid to Eden Hazard, reports in the English media suggest that Manchester United winger Anthony Martial could be part of the solution. According to the Sunday Express, Chelsea are eyeing up the Frenchman as a replacement, however, Jose Mourinho has said he would be willing to sell him abroad, but not to a direct rival. Let's see what tomorrow brings...
Modric shares the love
After a gruelling season which culminated in the Champions League final, and then a World Cup final reached, Luka Modric would be forgiven for just getting his feet up on a deserted beach. He decided though that the marriage of his countryman, and national captain, Vendran Córluka to singer Franka Batelic was too important to miss. The wedding was held in Istria, on the Adriatic Sea. The mercurial midfielder may be pleased to hear about his shirt sales.
Schumacher takes Florentino villa
German newspaper Bild reports that the family of Formula 1 driver Michael Schumacher has purchased the Mallorcan villa of Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez. The price stated was 30-million euros.
Vinicius: number 25 with no number
Los Blancos new kid on the Bernabéu block follows in a fine history of Brazilian players. There have been 24 before him and Vinicius is keen to live up to the reputations of the likes of Roberto Carlos and Ronaldo, as well as current player, Marcelo. If you don't know your Didis from your Danilos or your Canarios from your Cicinhos, take a look back at our guide to Madrid's boys from Brazil.
[*one for the Scottish readers there]