Rafael Nadal has reportedly been chosen to become the next Real Madrid president by current Los Blancos chief Florentino Perez. Perez has long admired his compatriot and has met with him on numerous occasions over the years. Nadal is a big Real Madrid fan and often talks about his love for the La Liga giants. And, now, Spanish website Defensa Central claim the US Open champion has been chosen to become the next president of the club.

It is claimed Perez recently held a meeting with some Real Madrid figures where he made it clear Nadal should be his heir. Perez feels the 33-year-old has ‘Real Madrid DNA’ and would be a worthy candidate when he eventually steps down. Next year there will be elections at the Bernabeu and, barring a sudden twist, Perez is expected to stay. The 72-year-old is currently in the midst of his second spell at the club. Perez first ruled the roost from 2000 to 2006, overseeing a Galactico era at the club. On his watch he famously lured Luis Figo away from Barcelona while also making Zinedine Zidane the world’s most-expensive player at the time.

Rafael Nadal has been chosen by Florentino Perez to be the next Real Madrid president

Rafael Nadal battled his way to US Open glory earlier this week

The Spaniard also signed Ronaldo, David Beckham, Michael Owen and Robinho before stepping down. Ramon Calderon replaced Perez but was then replaced in turn by the 72-year-old back in 2009. Immediately he made a splash upon his return, signing Kaka from AC Milan and Cristiano Ronaldo from Manchester United. Karim Benzema also followed and big names such as Xabi Alonso, Mesut Ozil, Angel Di Maria, Luka Modric and Toni Kroos have all signed during his tenure. Meanwhile, back in September last year, Perez tipped Nadal to one day become Real Madrid president. “Nadal would be a magnificent choice for the presidency of Real Madrid,” he said.

Rafael Nadal hangs out with Real Madrid chief Florentino Perez in 2013