Real Madrid News
Real Madrid face fresh competition from Barcelona for PSG superstar
The best players in the world aspire to play for one of Barcelona or Real Madrid during their careers. Needless to say, the two Spanish giants are almost always involved in a tussle when a superstar is looking for a move away.
Taking that into consideration, Kylian Mbappe’s move to Real Madrid seemed extremely straightforward. The Frenchman had his heart set on the Bernabeu and the two parties even have a verbal agreement in place.
However, the inevitable has happened. According to reports from L’Equipe, Barcelona have now entered the race for Mbappe and pose a new threat to Los Blancos’ plans. The 23-year-old is still far from agreeing anything with the Blaugranes but has not closed the door over a possible move.
Barcelona are looking to rebuild their squad in the summer and were initially linked with Erling Haaland. After falling out of the race for the Norwegian, they have turned to alternative options like Mbappe and Mohammed Salah.
Moreover, the Catalan administration believe that a move for Mbappe would be a better deal both economically and from a sporting view.
While the Norwegian’s transfer requires a €70 million fee, multiple commissions, and signing bonus; Mbappe would, at least, arrive on a free transfer.
It is difficult to imagine the Frenchman making a move to Camp Nou after being so straightforward about his desire to wear the white of Madrid.
It remains to be seen if Barcelona offer an superior economic proposal to the PSG star. As it stands, the chance of a last minute swoop are slim for the Catalans.
Real Madrid have finally received some good news as MARCA confirms that Nacho has finally made his decision about his future, and is set to continue at the club for the foreseeable future.
His contract expires in the summer, and Real Madrid had tabled an extension for the player, which was not accepted by the Spaniard at the time. Now, however, he has decided to reject offers from Juventus, Inter Milan, Chelsea, Inter Milan, and AC Milan.
Nacho will sign a one year extension, with the option to extend for another year if both parties reach an agreement.
His continuity also means that he will be the new club captain for the 2023/24 season, since Karim Benzema is leaving the club on a free transfer in the summer. Luka Modric will be second captain, followed by Daniel Carvajal and Toni Kroos.
Carlo Ancelotti has also spoken to the player, confirming that they trust him for next season in the team, which has gone a long way in helping convince the player.
The Italian gaffer also spoke about the Spanish defender’s contract situation after the game against Athletic Club yesterday, saying:
“Asensio, Nacho and Ceballos? We have explained them their roles. The club have offered them renewals. Asensio has preferred to leave, Ceballos and Nacho are still thinking about it.”
While a centre-back by trade, Nacho has played across the defence for Madrid continuously, including putting shifts at left-back, right-back, and even centre-back.
His departure would have probably pushed Madrid to sign another defender, especially since they are considering selling Ferland Mendy if a good offer arrives.
Regardless of that, though, Madrid are moving to sign Alphonso Davies, and have already made initial contacts with the player. Bayern Munich have not rejected their advances.
Further, the los blancos management have already met with Davies’ entourage twice, cementing their interest in the Canadian ace.
