Real Madrid have announced they have re-signed Lyon striker Mariano after activating their buy-back clause worth a reported €23m.
The European champions sold Mariano to Lyon in an €8m deal 12 months ago but the 25-year-old was a revelation for the French side last season.
Mariano has been heavily linked with a return to Spain this month but Sevilla, and not Madrid, were the club expected to sign the Lyon striker.
Sevilla’s president has already revealed Mariano told the club he wanted to join, but a late intervention, and personal talk with Madrid boss Julen Lopetegui, has proved decisive.
Lyon were obligated to inform Madrid of an agreement with Sevilla and Lopetegui’s side have swooped in and secured his return to the club after being notified.
Mariano scored 18 goals and provided four assists in 34 league appearances for Lyon last season, only four players netted more in the division.
