Real Madrid striker 'shocks' suitors with 'brutal' wage demands

Cameron Smith

• 21 Jan 2023 17:07 GMT
• 3 min read

Real Madrid forward Mariano Diaz has been linked with a transfer away this January after being deemed surplus to requirements at the Santiago Bernabeu, but his wages are proving to be a sticking point.

The 29-year-old re-joined Los Blancos from Olympique Lyonnais in 2018 after coming through the Real Madrid youth system, but has mustered just 25 minutes of action in all competitions this season, despite Karim Benzema's injury problems.

As a result, he's been heavily linked with a move away from his boyhood club, with his contract set to expire this June.

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However, rather than a permanent sale this January, Mariano has been linked with a loan move away before leaving Real Madrid on a free transfer in the summer.

But, his current wages have proven to be a massive problem for Carlo Ancelotti's side as they look to shift him this month.

Lazio are reportedly interested in taking him on loan until the end of the current campaign, but Mariano's wages have put them off a deal, according to Defensa Central.

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How much does Mariano earn?

The 29-year-old forward reportedly earns an annual salary of €4.5 million, and any potential loan deal would require Lazio to pay his wages for the duration of the loan move - six months. Therefore, the Serie A side would need to spend €2.25m on Mariano's wages if they want to sign him this January.

They are able to wait until the summer and sign him on a free transfer, but that would rely on Mariano reducing his wage demands in order to force a move through.

Mariano has 12 goals in 78 senior appearances for Real Madrid, while he netted 21 times during his sole season at Lyon.

Lazio currently sit fourth in Serie A after 18 games.