Real Madrid News
Real Madrid consider 23-year-old left-back a great reinforcement for next season
When Barcelona faced Rayo Vallecano earlier this week, their right wrong was kept under watch by Fran Garcia. Not only did the hosts’ left-back give a strong performance in defence but also scored a wonderful goal against Xavi’s side, sealing his team’s win.
Going by his consistency and top-level even against the elite opposition, it is not surprising that the offices of Real Madrid are buzzing over their latest acquisition. However, that has not always been the case.
For a long time after his signing, there were doubts over his profile and reports even suggested the club could sell him immediately in June. There has now been a turnaround, and MARCA reports that the club have big plans in mind for the youngster.
According to the Spanish outlet, Los Blancos see Fran Garcia as a more than able candidate to play as a left-back next season. They hope for him put pressure on Ferland Mendy and consider his signing to be a ‘bargain.’
The Merengues acquired Garcia from Rayo Vallecano in the winter transfer window for just €5 million after utilising their right to first refusal on the player. He will complete the season at Vallecas but is expected to arrive in Madrid immediately after that.
The 21-year-old is a product of Real Madrid’s youth academy, which means he already has a good understanding of the club’s values and culture. His familiarity with the club could make it easier for him to integrate into the team and contribute quickly.
Earlier today, news of Real Madrid’s dwindling faith in Ferland Mendy surfaced and even suggested the Frenchman’s departure if Nacho Fernandez renewed his contract. Needless to say, there is a good chance that Garcia will be the club’s starting left-back next season.
The cloud of uncertainty over Karim Benzema’s future has served as a major headache for the Real Madrid board, as they kickstart their team planning ahead of the new season.
Recent reports claim the Frenchman is strongly considering a move to Saudi Arabia, after receiving a lucrative €150 million offer from Al Ittihad. He was close to renewing his contract at Santiago Bernabeu not too long ago, but it appears the tables have turned lately.
Nevertheless, Real Madrid are yet to give up on Benzema and still harbour hopes of renewing his contract in the coming weeks, reports Alfredo Matilla.
The Spanish journalist suggests Real Madrid have not closed the file on Benzema. Coach Carlo Ancelotti has recently met the forward to clarify his future and it appears the club are set to do everything they can to keep hold of the player.
Benzema’s departure, after all, could put the club in a major dilemma, where they must either sign a top-class striker or settle for a low-cost alternative for the entirety of next season.
Harry Kane has been earmarked as the ideal replacement for Benzema. But his acquisition could potentially jeopardise Real Madrid’s bid to sign either Erling Haaland or Kylian Mbappe in 2024. The club have also faced difficulties negotiating with Daniel Levy, the Spurs chairman.
As far as the low-cost options are concerned, Real Madrid are interested in Roberto Firmino, who will become a free agent in the summer.
However, the Brazilian international is not the most productive striker around and his struggles in front of goal could put more pressure on players like Vinicius Junior next season.
Real Madrid, therefore, will hope to keep hold of Benzema’s services for another year. Unfortunately, though, the player has given a cold response so far and left training early, without speaking too much.
So it will be interesting to see whether or not the veteran striker opts to remain at Bernabeu for another year.
