Real Madrid News
24-year-old Real Madrid midfielder aiming to become a regular starter next season
The transition of Real Madrid’s midfield has been a topic constantly touched upon in the past few years. Yet, the club’s infamous midfield trio have continually led from the front year after year as if they are not ageing.
The upcoming season, however, is expected to be one where the mantle is finally passed. With several young stars at his disposal, Ancelotti can finally begin to relieve the veterans of their responsibilities.
According to reports from MARCA, Federico Valverde is aiming to take a leap and be a regular starter for the upcoming season.
The Uruguayan international has been a regular part of Los Blancos’ first team since his promotion in 2018 and continues to be a key cog in Ancelotti’s plans. However, his path to becoming a starter is not easy.
Though Luka Modric will be conservatively used by the manager this year, Eduardo Camavinga is well placed to start in place of the Croatian.
Moreover, the second spot in midfield too has severe competition given that Casemiro now has a deputy in the form of Aurelien Tchouameni. Thus, it is implied that Valverde can only be a starter if he proves himself superior to Toni Kroos, Modric, and even Camavinga.
While it is certainly not impossible, it would require a tremendous effort for Valverde to bench the 32-year-old German. Nevertheless, the Uruguayan’s desire to push his limits can only be positive news for Ancelotti.
Last season, Valverde participated in 31 La Liga games for the Champions and provided just one assist in that duration. He also recorded one assist in the UEFA Champions League.
There is no secret that Real Madrid might consider a move for a new striker in the coming summer. With Karim Benzema slowly nearing the end of his career, the club are looking for a viable alternative ahead of the new season.
Carlo Ancelotti has been left impressed by the performances of Rodrygo in the centre forward position. But the club could still use the services of a more recognised option in the number nine position.
The Spanish giants are reportedly assessing La Liga for a potential low-cost option. But they are also open to looking through in other leagues, in their bid to add more depth in the attacking department.
To that end, Fabrizio Romano claims Real Madrid are eyeing a swoop for Roberto Firmino. The Liverpool star has become the latest player to be shortlisted by Los Blancos, with his current contract at Liverpool expiring at the end of the season.
Formerly of TSG Hoffenheim, Firmino has a stellar track record of performing in Europe. He has scored 110 goals in 361 competitive matches during his time at Liverpool, winning the Premier League and the Champions League title.
A centre forward by trade, Roberto is known for his tactical flexibility and the ability to shift into wider areas to build up the player.
It makes him an appealing target for Real Madrid, who would prefer a versatile striker in their ranks that can not only provide cover for Benzema but also the likes of Vinicius Junior and Rodrygo.
Real Madrid, though, are yet to hold any discussions with Roberto Firmino just yet. He has just been added to the list of targets and one would expect the Spanish giants to make a move once the season is over and the player becomes a free agent.
