Interviewed by Television Espanola after Spain-Macedonia, midfielder Isco confirmed that he is close to a renewal with Real Madrid. "I'm still happy, Real Madrid and I hope to stay for many years. We are close to renewal." The news is not as surprising as one might speculate considering the attacking midfielder’s impressive match against Juventus in Real’s 4-1 victory in the Champions League final. Nearly every transfer window for the past two years have seen Isco on and off the radar of both Serie A and EPL clubs, with some murmurs of a La Liga switch as well.

Now after a successful La Liga title and second consecutive Champions League glory, Zidane will be more than happy to keep Isco in his squad moving into the fall. With James Rodriguez almost certain to leave, the need to have the Spaniard is even more necessary. The twist will come with Bale’s return to full form, and whether Isco is forced to the bench should Zizou return to his old trusted lineup. For now, with Isco happily in the starting eleven, and Real can enjoy a time of relaxation and tie him down to a renewal without any outside influence...