Marca newspaper reported that Frenchman Ferland Mendy is nearing a return to his club, Real Madrid.
The report clarified that the player has been training with the ball during recent sessions and is close to joining group training.
Last May, Mendy underwent surgery that kept him out of action for several months.
Real Madrid stated at the time: "Tests conducted on our player Ferland Mendy revealed he suffered a muscle tear in his thigh."
The statement added, "The duration of his absence depends on the pace of his recovery from the injury."
Reports at the time indicated that the French defender could be sidelined for five months if he underwent surgery.
Mendy has suffered numerous injuries this year and missed most of Real Madrid's matches during the season.
The French fullback has featured in only nine matches since the start of the current season, missing the rest due to recurring injuries.
