Real Madrid News
Official: Real Madrid sign U18 right-back from Atletico
For a long time, Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid restrained from recruiting players from each other’s academy because of a theoretical ‘pact’ in place. However, that agreement seemingly came to a close last season after Los Blancos reportedly found their rivals scouting the Castilla.
Now, the Galacticos have officially announced the signing of one of Atletico Madrid’s academy players. Fifteen-year-old Jesus Fortea has joined Real Madrid from their local rivals and will play for the U-18 side next season as revealed on his official Instagram account.
This comes as big news as it is the first official transfer that breaks the pact of non-aggression between the two Madrid-based clubs after close to fifteen years. The non-aggression pact maintained that neither team would sign players from the other, either at the senior or the youth levels.
Fortea is one of Spain’s most talented young right-backs and has represented La Roja in the U-15 category. He began his career in Levante before moving to Atletico Madrid three years ago.
Yesterday, it was reported that seven academy players of Atletico had offered their services to Real Madrid in what is a big blow to Diego Simeone’s side. Moreover, the La Liga champions are confident of not losing any of their stars and now look to ruthlessly prey on their rivals’ academy.
It remains to be seen as to how Los Rojiblancos react to their neighbours’ move. However, this is certainly not a sign of good things to come and one could expect it to end in a series of animous transfers.
There is no secret that Real Madrid might consider a move for a new striker in the coming summer. With Karim Benzema slowly nearing the end of his career, the club are looking for a viable alternative ahead of the new season.
Carlo Ancelotti has been left impressed by the performances of Rodrygo in the centre forward position. But the club could still use the services of a more recognised option in the number nine position.
The Spanish giants are reportedly assessing La Liga for a potential low-cost option. But they are also open to looking through in other leagues, in their bid to add more depth in the attacking department.
To that end, Fabrizio Romano claims Real Madrid are eyeing a swoop for Roberto Firmino. The Liverpool star has become the latest player to be shortlisted by Los Blancos, with his current contract at Liverpool expiring at the end of the season.
Formerly of TSG Hoffenheim, Firmino has a stellar track record of performing in Europe. He has scored 110 goals in 361 competitive matches during his time at Liverpool, winning the Premier League and the Champions League title.
A centre forward by trade, Roberto is known for his tactical flexibility and the ability to shift into wider areas to build up the player.
It makes him an appealing target for Real Madrid, who would prefer a versatile striker in their ranks that can not only provide cover for Benzema but also the likes of Vinicius Junior and Rodrygo.
Real Madrid, though, are yet to hold any discussions with Roberto Firmino just yet. He has just been added to the list of targets and one would expect the Spanish giants to make a move once the season is over and the player becomes a free agent.
