Mariano Diaz: The curious case of Cristiano's Castilla favourite

Mariano Diaz: The curious case of Cristiano's Castilla favourite

Mariano Diaz is one of the most fashionable names of Real Madrid's pre-season.

The 22-year-old is thought to be one of Cristiano Ronaldo's preferred youth team members, as he has seen ample potential in the striker to be an important player in the club's future.

For the moment, Mariano has decided to stay in Madrid, despite receiving numerous offers from other Spanish first division clubs.

He ended last season as Castilla's top scorer, with 25 goals.

The attacker renewed his contract with 'Los Blancos' in January, and his inclusion in the first team squad's pre-season preparations was assured then.

Manager Zinedine Zidane knows the player well from his time in charge at Castila, and will be able to monitor him closely ahead of the new season.

Mariano was a part of Espanyol's youth system between 2002/03 and 2005/06, but the Barcelona-based club were not convinced by him, and the player opted to leave.

The player was born in Premia de Mar, within the province of Barcelona, though his mother is Dominican.

This has allowed him to have dual nationality.

During his youth career, he also played for two seasons at Premia, and at Badalona, before Real Madrid's interest took him to the Spanish capital.

His future is uncertain, though the most likely outcome is for him to move on a loan deal to another team in La Liga, in order to gain experience in the top flight.