Real Madrid have called up 12 academy players for their ongoing pre-season tour in the United States.
With several first-team stars unavailable for the three scheduled friendlies, the young prospects are expected to hog more of the limelight and have their chance to stake claim for a place under Carlo Ancelotti.
One such young player who has made the cut is Joan Martinez who is amazingly just 16 years of age.
A boy in demand
Despite his young age, Martinez is one of the best centre-backs in La Fabrica and is very highly rated by the management.
With Los Blancos seriously deprived of resources in the department, he is presented with a golden chance to prove his worth at the highest level.
The teenager has already attracted interest from several Premier League clubs who have enquired about his situation, as revealed by The Athletic.
However, Martinez does not consider any option apart from staying at the club.
The new Ramos
Earning comparisons with Sergio Ramos is amongst the greatest compliments any player aspiring to play for Real Madrid can earn.
At just 16 years of age, Martinez is largely called the new Sergio Ramos for his understanding of the game, no-nonsense style of defence and maturity beyond his years. In fact, the player idolises the club legend.
Considering that he joined the club just last year, the teenager has made a huge impression and is pushing for more. If his trajectory so far is anything to go by, he could well be Ancelotti’s trusted fourth defender for the upcoming season.