Real Madrid News
Real Madrid confident of beating Liverpool in Jude Bellingham race
Jude Bellingham was one of England’s top performers in the recently concluded FIFA World Cup, scoring once and providing one assist in five games for the Three Lions. The youngster is already one of the most sought-after talents in world football, and the demand for him now is higher than ever.
According to reports from BILD, the management of Real Madrid are convinced about signing the midfielder in the summer. His transfer is now said to be an ‘absolute priority’. Furthermore, they are now confident of pulling ahead of Liverpool.
Los Blancos have been actively pursuing his signature for several months now but took a step back after learning that Liverpool were throwing the kitchen sink for his move. Now, they have re-entered talks and will push hard to make his arrival at the Bernabeu possible.
The sudden revival in their interest could be due to a sudden realisation of the graveness of their midfield situation. Luka Modric, at 37 years of age does not have a lot of gas left in his tank while Toni Kroos’ future is hazy too.
Only Aurelien Tchouameni and Federico Valverde can claim a guaranteed starting spot on the team in the near future. There is a real need for another quality reinforcement in the summer, and Bellingham is the chosen one.
In fifteen Bundesliga appearances for Borussia Dortmund this season, the teenager has scored three goals and provided two assists. His influence on the UEFA Champions League has been unreal too, with five goal-contributions in as many appearances.
Given that his contract with Dortmund runs until 2025, Bellingham could command a steep transfer fee, with some outlets suggesting it could go as high as €150 million.
But, as per BILD, Real Madrid are now confident of landing the 19-year-old, with Liverpool now seeing the chances of them signing him as only ‘moderate’.
If Real Madrid fail to sign the Borussia Dortmund star, Enzo Fernandez of Benfica promises to be a strong alternative. The Merengues are paying attention to his situation too, especially after his stellar World Cup run.
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.
