Real Madrid News
€112 million Manchester City target more attracted to Real Madrid – report
RB Leipzig and Croatian defender Josko Gvardiol is set to be one of the most sought-after defenders in the upcoming summer transfer window. The 21-year-old is on the radars of Real Madrid, Chelsea and Manchester City, among several other top clubs across Europe.
But a fresh report from BILD is claiming that Gvardiol, at this moment, is more attracted to Real Madrid than Manchester City. The defender was supposedly excited after learning that the Merengues had contacted his agents to express their interest in him.
Earlier this week, it was revealed that Los Blancos’ representatives met with Gvardiol’s entourage in December last year, right after the FIFA World Cup 2022, to express their admiration towards the centre-half.
At the same time, however, it was suggested that Real Madrid believe that the Croatian international’s signing would be out of reach for them due to the finances involved.
Indeed, Gvardiol signed a new contract with Leipzig last year, committing himself to the club until the summer of 2027. He has a release clause worth €112 million embedded in the deal, although that will come only into force in 2024.
But, Leipzig will demand a figure in excess of €100 million if they do consider the prospect of selling their defensive ace in the upcoming summer.
That could pose a problem for Real Madrid as they are also targeting a summer move for Borussia Dortmund star Jude Bellingham. The 19-year-old midfielder will cost in the range of €100-140 million as well.
And as per the report, even though the Merengues have around €350 million to spend for the summer, they will look to splash a nine-figure transfer fee only on one player.
So, Real Madrid will have to decide between signing Gvardiol, Bellingham and even possibly Kylian Mbappe, provided he becomes available in the summer market.
Real Madrid News
Real Madrid star Huijsen credits Mourinho for improved form in new season: ‘He supports me a lot’
Real Madrid will be looking to get back to winning ways in LaLiga as they take on Rayo Vallecano on Saturday.
The club are coming on the back of a 1-0 defeat to Real Betis last weekend but did secure a narrow win over Inter Milan in the midweek Champions League fixture.
Heading into this game, Dean Huijsen, who has been showing a lot of promise in these early parts of the season, spoke to the club’s official media about the match ahead and how Real Madrid have been coping with the pressure early on, among other things.
Huijsen on Rayo and his defensive duties
The young centre-back was fully aware of the threat posed by Rayo and praised the opposition.
“We know that Rayo is a good team, and it’s a tough team to face, and we must give our all as we do in all matches to secure the three points, that’s the only thing that matters, and for the Bernabeu to be with us and for us all to be united,” he said.
He also detailed the defensive demands placed on him by the coaching staff led by Jose Mourinho.
“Well, what every coach asks of you: ferocity, intercepting balls, and winning one-on-one duels. He supports me a lot, and I think this helps me greatly, and defending together as a team,” he said.
On the team’s preparations for the fixture, Huijsen offered an insight into their training routine.
“We’re working on some tactics related to the opponent. And well, after that it depends on the day; we might play a mini-match among ourselves or not,” he added.
Huijsen on Mourinho and his fine form
The Spaniard was quick to credit Mourinho, with whom he previously worked at Roma, for his development and current level.
“We’ve known each other for a while, even though we spent a relatively short time together in Rome. He gave me the opportunity to make the real leap into professional football, and I’ll always be grateful to him for that,” Huijsen said.
Reflecting on his own performances, the defender was in confident mood, once again pointing to the influence of his coach and teammates.
“I think I’m in good shape. Well, I think I’m delivering a good level, and I believe that’s thanks to the coach too, as he keeps track of me and takes great care of me.”
“Well, I’m also doing my very best, and I think the teammates are supporting me too, and this is the perfect equation,” he added.
Finally, Huijsen explained how he manages his recovery amid a congested schedule.
“There are a lot of matches, so we need to recover well and stay focused on football, then you have to sleep well. And yes, on the days after the match, I also take a cold shower and a hot shower to recover better,” he concluded.
