Real Madrid News
Manchester City make Real Madrid target their top priority for the summer – report
Manchester City have made Real Madrid transfer target Jude Bellingham their top priority for the summer window, according to AS.
The 19-year-old is one of the most sought-after midfielders in Europe currently, with several elite teams intent on securing his services before next season.
Borussia Dortmund, for their part, are intent on keeping hold of their prized asset for at least one more season. However, it is looking increasingly likely that Bellingham will be on the move come summer.
Liverpool were also in the mix, but their struggles this season have seemingly seen them fade away in the race, with Manchester City and Real Madrid left as the frontrunners.
Real Madrid, for their part, are pushing hard to sign Bellingham, who will likely cost around €150 million. However, the Merengues will need to be wary of the interest from Manchester City, who have the England star at the top of their summer shopping list as per AS.
The Premier League champions are likely to lose Ilkay Gundogan this summer, with his contract expiring at the end of the season. The German international has been heavily linked with a Bosman move to Barcelona.
Meanwhile, there is no certainty over the future of Bernardo Silva as well, with the Portuguese international linked with PSG and, interestingly Real Madrid as well, as a possible alternative for Bellingham.
Given the circumstances, City are gunning to sign Bellingham. And they have the financial muscle to outbid Real Madrid while they could also offer a much more lucrative contract to the teenage midfielder.
As for Real Madrid, Bellingham is seen as the heir to Luka Modric, who could be on his way out this year itself, if he does not renew, or next year if he does sign a new contract.
Either way, the ex-Birmingham City ace is seen as a key puzzle in Los Blancos’ midfield transition from the old to the new. And it remains to be seen if the reigning European champions can beat Man City to his capture.
One of the main objectives for Real Madrid this summer was to bring in a new central midfielder capable of controlling the tempo and dictating the play from the middle.
A move for Rodri was in the works before the Spain captain decided to sign for FC Barcelona. The Merengues assessed several other options, but ended up not signing any player, with Jose Mourinho deciding to use Bernardo Silva in the double pivot.
One of the midfielders that Real Madrid were looking at as an option was Adam Wharton of Crystal Palace.
The England international has been on the club’s radar for a while now, but the Premier League club never opened the door for a summer departure.
Wharton could be on the market in 2027
However, now, according to The Guardian (h/t Bernabeu Digital), That stance could change next year, as that Palace would be prepared to consider selling Wharton during the next summer transfer window.
As mentioned already, Real Madrid have closely followed Wharton’s situation throughout the summer, although the club ultimately decided against making any further additions to their midfield.
Manchester City and Chelsea also showed serious interest in signing the England international during the summer. However, Crystal Palace were unwilling to sell, effectively ruling out a move for the midfielder.
But it appears that they could open the doors for Wharton to leave in the summer of 2027, potentially paving the way for Real Madrid to make a move.
Real Madrid continue to monitor Wharton
Real Madrid are expected to keep a close eye on Wharton’s progress ahead of the 2027 market. Should they decide they need another high-quality midfielder, the 22-year-old could once again emerge as a candidate.
Manchester City may be less likely to return for Wharton after strengthening their midfield significantly this summer.
Chelsea, however, could remain a potential competitor after failing to add a player in the position during the latest window.
For now, Wharton will remain at Crystal Palace, but the club’s willingness to consider a sale next summer means the midfielder could become a realistic option for Real Madrid in 2027.
Solomon Moses
March 22, 2023 at 7:48 pm
Real madrid will sign Bellingham by all cost.
The young midfielder will surely pick Madrid over City!!!