Real Madrid may not be interested in signing players in the January transfer window, but that does not imply that there will be no movements at the Santiago Bernabeu. The club will focus on the departures of the players not in Carlo Ancelotti’s plans, and Mariano Diaz is one such figure.

According to Mundo Deportivo, Lazio are interested in signing the 29-year-old in January but will only push for his signing if he will arrive on a free transfer.

While it sounds obnoxious at first, the Italian side’s request is not unreasonable as the player is in the final six months of his contract and no clubs are willing to pay a transfer fee for him in January.

The deal would clearly not be in Real Madrid’s best interest as the Spanish giants would like to get back a return on their investment. Yet, his exit would clear place on the squad and wage bill.

AS Roma were previously linked with the player, but Mourinho no longer seems interested in his profile. Meanwhile, Espanyol are quickly emerging as a potential destination and hope to accelerate talks soon.

Mariano Diaz has only made four appearances for Real Madrid in La Liga this season and is yet to start a game. He has failed to find the back of the net and is clearly not a part of the manager’s plans.

It remains to be seen if the European Champions deem Lazio’s request furnishable. Considering that the player’s value is unlikely to rise in the coming months and a contract renewal is off the table, the best option might be to ship Mariano out at the earliest, even if it would be for free.