Contact had already been made between Real Madrid and Sadio Mane before the Champions League final, with Zinedine Zidane reportedly making the Liverpool winger his top target before departing the club.
Even Real president Florentino Perez was surprised by the Frenchman's sudden exit and this is exemplified further by the fact he had planned for next season at great length.
Pre-season preparations and transfer shortlists were all prepared by Zidane with France Football detailing his desire to swoop for Mane.
In advance of the final in Kiev, where the Senegal forward scored and hit the post in a starring display, both the player and Perez had given the green light to complete the signing.
All that was left was the negotiation with Liverpool and, with Zidane gone, the deal will soon be in the hands of his successor.

Source: Marca

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