Real Madrid signs Sergio Martinez after loan restrictions prevent Racing return

Real Madrid signed 19-year-old midfielder Sergio Martinez from Racing Santander for €3 million after activating his release clause this summer. The move was intended to keep Martinez at Racing, but current UEFA and FIFA regulations prohibit a club from signing a player and immediately loaning him back within the same transfer window. Real Madrid had sought to retain the player in Santander until 2028 following his recent promotion to the top flight. Martinez is now set to be registered with Real Madrid Castilla and will have the opportunity to train with the first team under Jose Mourinho. The transition presents a challenge for the teenager, as he faces significant competition for playing time in a squad featuring established midfielders like Valverde, Bernardo Silva, Arda Güler, and the upcoming return of Thiago Pitarch.

• 7:40 AMYahoo Sports — UEFA rules prevented Real Madrid from loaning exciting summer signing to Racing – report