Sunsoccer | Nov. 01, 2018
REAL MADRID have been warned off tapping up Roberto Martinez by Belgium.
The former Everton and Wigan boss is believed to be keen to speak to Los Blancos after they sacked Julen Lopetegui .
But Belgium could play hard-ball with the Spanish giants and ensure any approach goes through the correct channels.
Speaking to Sky Sports News , a spokesperson said: "Roberto has a contract with the Belgian Football Association (KBVB) until 2020 and anyone intending to make an approach for the manager would need to do that through the Association in the first instance."
Madrid have placed reserve team boss Santiago Solari in temporary charge after swinging the axe on Lopetegui.
He is believed to be an early favourite to keep the role, especially after former Chelsea boss Antonio Conte appeared to rule himself out.
But Martinez is another name linked with the top job.
According to Sky Sports, the Spaniard does not have a release clause in his contract with Belgium, meaning compensation would need to be paid.
The 45-year-old only agreed a two year extension to remain as Belgium boss after guiding them to a third-place finish at the World Cup.
But being offered the chance to work at Madrid would represent "the pinnacle of his managerial career", according to Sky Sports.