Real Madrid yet to approach Roberto Martinez to be next manager but remain interested in the Belgium boss

Martinez's attacking style of play excites Real Madrid and makes him an attractive candidate

Real Madrid have not made an official approach for Roberto Martinez but remained interested in acquiring the Belgium manager.

Sections the Real Madrid hierarchy are interested in appointing the Spaniard because of his exciting and attacking style of play, as well as the ability he showed to get the best out of a talented team of individuals during the World Cup with Belgium.

Martinez guided Belgium to third in Russia, after being beaten by France in the semi-final and winning 2-0 against England in the third place play-off, and a spokesperson for the Belgian Football Association told ESPN the Spanish club have not contacted them about the 45-year-old’s availability.

“So far Real Madrid have not been in contact with the Belgian FA," they said. "If they should be interested they should contact the Belgium FA and ask permission to start negotiations. That has not been the case so far."

Roberto Martinez guided Belgium to third in the World Cup (EPA)

Julen Lopetegui was sacked by Real Madrid after losing 5-1 against Barcelona to cap of a miserable start to the season, which included a record 481 minutes without scoring, the longest time in the club’s 116 history. Former Real Madrid winger and B team coach Santiago Solari has been appointed as interim coach while the club consider its long-term options.

Antonio Conte ruled himself out of taking over at the Bernabeu as he feels the project is not right for him after financial complications deterred Real Madrid's interest.

The Belgium FA did not speculate whether Martinez would consider the role but echoed his comments when it was suggested he could take over from Zinedine Zidane in the summer. “Roberto says the same as we do, he did so in the summer when there was similar talk," the spokesperson said.

"He is under contract until 2020, so anybody interested should talk to the federation. At the moment it is nothing but speculation, as nobody has made any contact with us."

After easing to a 4-0 victory in his first game, an away win against Real Valladolid in the Copa del Rey, Solari refused to be drawn on his future. “The commitment is not mine, it’s to the shirt, with the institution, with the fans. Now I’m in with this group and we’re all together. We beat a good opponent, who played very well. We knew it would be a hard game.”