Real Madrid continue to bet on teenage defender after deadline day exit links

Real Madrid is reportedly staying confident in defender Joan Martinez despite deadline-day transfer links to Valencia. After a quiet summer, Martinez’s future became a topic on the final day, when reports surfaced that Valencia was pursuing the Real Madrid player. However, sources close to the situation say Real Madrid remains fully committed, viewing Martinez as a long-term option for the first team even if he isn’t central to Jose Mourinho’s plans right now. Martinez suffered an ACL injury in 2024, but has returned to fitness and had opportunities in pre-season. The club could rely on him later given concerns about center-back depth in recent seasons, with Real Madrid expecting a potential breakout.