Real Madrid News
Barcelona target says ‘yes’ to spearhead Mourinho’s defensive revolution at Real Madrid
According to journalist Miguel Serrano, Real Madrid have secured a critical breakthrough ahead of a monumental summer overhaul, with Inter Milan defender Alessandro Bastoni giving his definitive “yes” to join the club.
The Italian international has accepted the challenge of leading the backline under incoming manager Jose Mourinho, who is set to return to the Santiago Bernabéu to restore long-term stability.
Mourinho wants Bastoni as his defensive leader
Mourinho identified the centre-back as his absolute priority to address an escalating defensive crisis in the capital.
With David Alaba departing, Antonio Rudiger facing the natural decline of advancing age, and Eder Militao plagued by incessant injury issues, the Portuguese tactician needed an elite replacement.
As such, Mourinho identified Bastoni, a key target for arch-rivals Barcelona heading into the summer, as his absolute priority to strengthen the department personally launched a charm offensive to win the player over.
During private conversations with the 27-year-old defender, Mourinho outlined his vision, explaining that he wants Bastoni to be the absolute “boss” and undisputed leader of the new Real Madrid defence.
Mentor for youngsters
Beyond his on-field duties, Bastoni is earmarked for a vital mentorship role if he ends up arriving.
Mourinho expects the experienced Italian to serve as a mentor, training both Dean Huijsen and another highly rated young centre-back tipped to arrive this summer – either from outside from within the academy.
While Bastoni has given his verbal green light, a transfer is not yet guaranteed.
The Italian is expected to receive far superior financial offers from the Premier League, meaning he must ultimately choose between a larger paycheck or the prestige of playing for the 15-time European champions.
Furthermore, while Mourinho has successfully completed his ‘homework’ by convincing the player, finalising the actual transfer fee now remains a strict matter for the club’s board.
Real Madrid News
Real Madrid ready to reward 21-year-old star with new contract and big salary increase
Real Madrid are preparing to reward Arda Guler for his rapid rise by extending his contract and significantly improving his salary, according to AS.
It must be remembered that the Turkish midfielder’s standing at the Santiago Bernabeu has changed considerably since he arrived as an 18-year-old.
Initially, adapting to the demands of Real Madrid proved difficult, with regular opportunities hard to find. His situation, however, is now very different.
Real Madrid want the player’s contract to reflect that change and are working towards an agreement that would keep Guler tied to the club until 2031.
Guler set for major contract upgrade
Guler originally signed a deal running until 2029 when he signed from Fenerbahce.
Real Madrid now want to add another two years while simultaneously giving him a substantial salary increase.
The intention is not only to protect the club’s investment in one of Europe’s most exciting young players, but also to formally recognise the importance Guler has developed within the first-team setup.
According to the report, the new agreement is already complete and is set to take effect from the beginning of the current season.
The improved terms are therefore designed to match Guler’s growing contribution rather than his status when he first arrived in Spain.
Mourinho sees Guler differently
Jose Mourinho’s arrival has also helped clarify where Guler fits into Real Madrid’s plans.
The Portuguese manager views him primarily as an attacking midfielder, rather than a central midfielder.
Mourinho’s vision is particularly important for Guler because central roles are more commonly occupied by players such as Bernardo Silva, Federico Valverde, Eduardo Camavinga and Aurelien Tchouameni.
Hence, Mourinho’s assessment appears to give Guler a more defined role in the team, allowing his attacking qualities to become a greater part of his responsibilities.
As such, the proposed extension is effectively a recognition that Guler is no longer the same prospect who walked through the Bernabeu doors two years ago.
Real Madrid initially had to be patient with his development, but the club now appears determined to make his long-term future a priority.
