Real Madrid News
Ancelotti requests the signing of Chelsea defender alongside Mbappe/Haaland
After a disappointing season under Frank Lampard, Antonio Rudiger’s stocks have skyrocketed under Thomas Tuchel.
The German defender, playing on the left of a back-three at Chelsea in the last two seasons, has become of the most impressive defenders in Europe. He has arguably been one of the best centre-backs in England this season, but will most likely jump ships in the summer.
Rudiger becomes a free agent, and has been on the radar of most top European clubs. Carlo Ancelotti, especially seems to be a fan, and has requested his signing alongside one superstar signing of Kylian Mbappe and/or Erling Haaland, according to MARCA.
Barcelona were briefly interested in Rudiger, and met his agents last month. However, given Ronald Araujo’s contract extension is going through soon, the Blaugranes have dropped their pursuit.
As for Real Madrid, while David Alaba and Eder Militao have formed a solid partnership for the most part, there have been some concerning games.
Thibaut Courtois has been their saving grace in a lot of games, but El Clasico and the Chelsea return leg have proven that even the Belgian is not impenetrable.
Rudiger’s signing, would, however, pose some interesting questions on Madrid’s wage bill. The German demands a salary upward of €8 million net, which would automatically make him one of the highest earners in the squad.
The team is, however, studying formulas to fit the Chelsea superstar in their wage structure and will have time until June to offload players.
Gareth Bale is looking at the exit door, and has the highest earner in the team, which would leave the team open to superstar signings.
Real Madrid have finally received some good news as MARCA confirms that Nacho has finally made his decision about his future, and is set to continue at the club for the foreseeable future.
His contract expires in the summer, and Real Madrid had tabled an extension for the player, which was not accepted by the Spaniard at the time. Now, however, he has decided to reject offers from Juventus, Inter Milan, Chelsea, Inter Milan, and AC Milan.
Nacho will sign a one year extension, with the option to extend for another year if both parties reach an agreement.
His continuity also means that he will be the new club captain for the 2023/24 season, since Karim Benzema is leaving the club on a free transfer in the summer. Luka Modric will be second captain, followed by Daniel Carvajal and Toni Kroos.
Carlo Ancelotti has also spoken to the player, confirming that they trust him for next season in the team, which has gone a long way in helping convince the player.
The Italian gaffer also spoke about the Spanish defender’s contract situation after the game against Athletic Club yesterday, saying:
“Asensio, Nacho and Ceballos? We have explained them their roles. The club have offered them renewals. Asensio has preferred to leave, Ceballos and Nacho are still thinking about it.”
While a centre-back by trade, Nacho has played across the defence for Madrid continuously, including putting shifts at left-back, right-back, and even centre-back.
His departure would have probably pushed Madrid to sign another defender, especially since they are considering selling Ferland Mendy if a good offer arrives.
Regardless of that, though, Madrid are moving to sign Alphonso Davies, and have already made initial contacts with the player. Bayern Munich have not rejected their advances.
Further, the los blancos management have already met with Davies’ entourage twice, cementing their interest in the Canadian ace.
