​Real Madrid consider the signing of teenage midfield prodigy a ‘done deal’ – reportAs reported previously, Real Madrid have intensified their efforts to secure the signing of Racing Santander’s highly-rated midfielder Sergio Martinez, with the Spanish giants eager to wrap up a deal swiftly. The 19-year-old has become one of the most coveted young talents in Spanish football, prompting a fierce recruitment battle that also includes arch-rivals FC Barcelona.Contradicting reports on status of the dealAccording to journalist Ramon Alvarez de Mon, several insiders at Real Madrid already consider the transfer to be a virtually ‘done deal’.However, Mario Cortegana of The Athletic states that the agreement is not yet fully finalized due to persistent interest from rival suitors. Coming to Real Madrid? (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)Martinez possesses a highly enticing €3 million release clause. However, in line with their typical transfer strategy, Los Blancos are actively attempting to negotiate a fee with Racing rather than unilaterally triggering the buyout fee.A stunning La Liga introductionMartinez’s stock has risen exponentially over the last week following a remarkable La Liga debut. Having only recently transitioned out of Racing’s youth ranks, the Spain Under-18 international was handed a starting berth against Villarreal. He marked the occasion by scoring a spectacular goal to help his side secure a 2-2 draw.This immediate, high-profile impact has forced interested clubs to accelerate their timelines. Evaluating the ideal pathwayInitially, Real Madrid’s sporting directors intended to immediately integrate the teenager into the Castilla side. However, his demonstrated readiness for senior football has altered the club’s thinking.Will he join Castilla or be loaned back to Racing? (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)The current framework of the negotiation could see Real Madrid permanently sign Martinez before immediately loaning him back to Racing Santander for the remainder of the 2026/27 campaign. This approach guarantees the player consistent first-team minutes in La Liga while securing his long-term future at Valdebebas. Nonetheless, to facilitate the transfer, discussions have also taken place regarding the possibility of sending an unnamed Real Madrid academy product in the opposite direction to supplement Racing’s squad.With less than two weeks remaining before the summer transfer window slams shut, Real Madrid are working to iron out the final details and officially ward off late competition for Spain’s brightest midfield prospect.