Real Madrid News
Borussia Dortmund preparing for the exit of Real Madrid target – report
According to MARCA, Borussia Dortmund have started to take note of the interest attracted by their star player Jude Bellingham.
The Englishman has become the hottest prospect in Europe right now, with clubs such as Real Madrid, Manchester City and Liverpool keen on securing his services in the coming summer.
In light of the widespread interest around Bellingham, Dortmund have started to take note, with the club’s CEO Hans-Joachim Watzke confirming the fact that the club are taking steps to finalise his fate at the end of the season.
Watzke further confirmed that Dortmund are set to have a discussion with Bellingham’s environment soon after the World Cup.
“I think as soon as the World Cup is over, we will have a general discussion about what he really wants,” Watzke said. “We will speak with him and his parents, with whom we have a very close relationship, and, of course, with his advisor.”
Bellingham made headlines after his selection to the England national side for the upcoming FIFA World Cup. At the age of just 19, he is expected to play a vital role for Gareth Southgate’s troops, as the nation looks to lift its first World Cup since 1966.
Watzke, though, indicated that Borussia Dortmund are prepared for his exit and will not stand in the player’s way if he wants to move on.
“He should tell us whether he wants to stay or whether he wants to leave. In both cases, we will have a very pleasant and reasonable discussion between us.”
He further added that Dortmund are not in a position to financially compete with other giants in Europe, stating, “But we don’t have to pretend that the issue is not on the table. If the really big clubs are involved, then we can’t afford to have a financial fight.”
However, Dortmund are certainly expected to make life difficult for Real Madrid and other suitors in their pursuit of Bellingham, who is valued at around €100 million right now. The figure could increase drastically depending on the youngster’s performances in the World Cup.
Although Antonio Rudiger has had success since joining Real Madrid last summer, the club are in need of more depth and players that can form the backbone of the defensive unit in the years to come.
As part of their plans, Real Madrid are prioritising a move for Josko Gvardiol in the coming summer, reports 90 Min.
The outlet suggests Gvardiol will be one of the most wanted prospects in the market, with both Real Madrid and Manchester City eyeing a move for the Croatian international come the end of the season.
Formerly of Dinamo Zagreb, Gvardiol has enjoyed immense success since his move to the Bundesliga in 2021. He has impressed onlookers with his skill, organisation and discipline, which, coupled with his versatility, make him an appealing target for any European giant.
Gvardiol was also one of the top performers at the 2022 FIFA World Cup, helping Croatia finish third in the competition. His performances have not gone unnoticed, with Real Madrid among the clubs who have been keeping an eye on the defender for a while now.
However, signing Gvardiol will be a tricky task for Los Blancos. The player still has a long-term contract at Leipzig and could cost up to €85 million, as reported by 90 Min. Not to mention, the competition from Man City could be significant.
Real Madrid have no shortage of alternatives, though, with the club notably closely monitoring Portuguese defensive whizkid Antonio Silva, among others. So it will be interesting to see how the Spanish giants approach the market in this coming summer.
