Real present teenager Marcelo as a face of the future

MADRID, Nov 15 (Reuters) Real Madrid today officially presented their new Brazilian defender Marcelo as an important signing for the club's future success.

The 18-year-old Brazil international, who has joined from Fluminense until 2012, is seen as a long-term replacement for compatriot Roberto Carlos at left back.

''He is strong in defence and very quick in attack which is why sports director Predrag Mijatovic was keen to sign him for Real,'' said club president Ramon Calderon.

''He is the first part of our project for the future which will see us signing quality young players that will help to put us back on the road to success.

''It is the board's plan to try and combine young players with experienced ones and to build on their contrasting qualities.'' The player said he was unfazed by the prospect of possibly having to start his career with Real in the youth ranks.

Some reports have suggested that Marcelo may be asked to play with Real Madrid Castilla, who play in the Spanish second division, until June to help ease his adaptation to European football.

''I have come here to help Real Madrid. I have come here to work hard and will work wherever they ask me to,'' Marcelo told a news conference.

Real are also being linked with moves for Boca Juniors' 20-year-old midfielder Fernando Gago and River Plate's 18-year-old forward Gonzalo Higuain.

Calderon said last evening: ''Gago and Higuain will come in January.'' REUTERS SAM RK1941