Real Madrid defender Nacho has seemingly decided to stay on in the Spanish capital despite the reported strong interest from Simone Inzaghi and Inter in recent weeks.
The 33-year-old centre back was rumoured to be in talks with the Nerazzurri over a potential three-year deal upon the expiry of his contract with Madrid, which would have been worth somewhere in the region of €4m in terms of annual wages
Though Nacho’s current contract is set to expire at the end of June and is therefore able tro leave on a free transfer, the player has told the Spanish press that he intends to stay on at the Santiago Bernabeu.
Speaking to TVE 1 on Sunday, Nacho confirmed: “My will goes hand in hand with that of the club and my family. There are always offers but I have decided to stay in Madrid. I’m very happy about it.”
According to reports in Tuttomercato, an official announcement from the club is now practically just a formality.
Reporters elsewhere suggest that Nacho has agreed to a one-year extension to his Madrid contract, which will also see him take home around €4m per season.
With club captain Karim Benzema having moved on to Al-Ittihad in Saudi Arabia last week, Nacho, who served as Madrid’s vice-captain this season, is expected to take over the armband for 2023-24.