Real Madrid News
Liverpool optimistic about signing €140 million Real Madrid target, no offer made yet
The transfer of Jude Bellingham is certain to dominate the headlines between now and the summer as several top clubs like Real Madrid, Liverpool and Manchester City vie to sign him from Borussia Dortmund.
The 19-year-old Englishman has become one of the most in-demand players in the market, thanks to his exploits with Dortmund as well as the England national team. After all, Bellingham was one of the Three Lions’ most standout players at the World Cup in Qatar.
Real Madrid have held a long-standing interest in the teenage midfield prodigy and see him as the ideal fit to take over from Luka Modric, who is in the final phase of his career.
Reports had suggested that Los Blancos are confident of signing Bellingham as the teenager would prefer a move to Spain over a return to England.
However, now, Sky Sports Germany journalist Florian Plettenberg is reporting that Liverpool still remain in the hunt for Bellingham and are optimistic about their chances of signing the England international in the summer transfer window.
The update states that the Reds have already held talks over a move for the 19-year-old prodigy, although it has been clarified that there has been no direct communication between the player and manager Jurgen Klopp.
Liverpool are yet to make any kind of official offer for Bellingham either. However, they feel positive about their chances of signing him as they would be offering him the opportunity to become the next Steven Gerrard.
Dortmund, for their part, are preparing for Bellingham’s exit. However, they will not let go of the midfielder easily and will demand a fee close to around €140 million.
Real Madrid are said to be willing to meet that figure albeit including variables and add-ons. Liverpool, too, should not have any problems reaching that valuation. So, ultimately, it will likely come down to Bellingham’s wishes and preference and whether he opts for England or Spain.
Real Madrid News
Real Madrid forward Vinicius Jr. admits finishing problem after another frustrating night vs Elche: ‘Can’t miss that much’
Vinicius Jr.’s difficult start in front of goal continued against Elche, and the Real Madrid forward did not need anyone to tell him he had missed another chance to make the difference.
The Brazilian finished the night without a goal despite having chances to get on the scoresheet, while his teammates could only watch from the bench as opportunities went begging.
Jose Mourinho had already identified the problem before kick-off, bluntly pointing to the issue facing his forward, stating, “He’s missing the goal.”
Vini offered an equally frank assessment afterwards.
Rather than hide from another frustrating evening, he accepted responsibility on social media: “The goals will come back; I can’t miss that much…”
Two chances, no finish for Vinicius
Vinicius had two particularly clear openings against Elche, but neither produced the finish Real Madrid needed from their star forward.
The first arrived when he found himself one-on-one with the opposition goalkeeper.
Instead of finding the net, Vinicius caught the ball with the tip of his foot and sent his effort wide. Arda Guler was available during the move and called for the ball, but Vini backed himself to finish the chance.
He had another opportunity after the interval, this time following an excellent pass from Guler during a quick Real Madrid transition. Again, though, Vinicius could not find the target.
His evening ended in the 68th minute, with Mourinho deciding the Brazilian was tired and turning his attention towards Sunday’s Atletico Madrid derby.
Mourinho has a bigger decision to make
The numbers show why Vinicius’ finishing has become a talking point. He managed five shots against Elche, but only one was on target and none found the net.
After seven appearances this season, the Brazilian has scored just once, which is a striking return for a player Real Madrid rely upon to provide a major share of their attacking threat.
Ultimately, though, Real Madrid found another route to victory, with Arda Guler, Kylian Mbappe and Carlos Espi providing the goals in the 3-2 comeback.
