Marcelo 'preparing to leave Real Madrid on a free transfer'

Real Madrid defender Marcelo has reportedly informed club president Florentino Perez that he will be leaving the Bernabeu on a free transfer when his contract expires next June.

The 33-year-old arrived at Los Blancos from Fluminense in 2007 and has enjoyed a glittering career, making 530 appearances in all competitions, winning five La Liga titles and four Champions League crowns.

Marcelo has struggled with injuries over the last couple of seasons, though, and he has now dropped down the pecking order for the starting position at left-back.

The Brazilian's contract at the Bernabeu is due to expire next June, and according to El Nacional, the experienced defender will not be signing an extension.

The report claims that Marcelo is planning to return to Fluminense, where he came through the youth system before making 30 appearances for the first team.

The South American has only made two appearances for Carlo Ancelotti's side this season due to injury, and he was an unused substitute during the 2-1 win over Barcelona on Sunday afternoon.