Over the last two seasons, Real Madrid’s attack was heavily reliant on the services of Vinicius Jr and Karim Benzema, both of whom formed an incredible partnership in the frontline and led them to another Champions League in 2022.

However, Benzema’s departure in the summer severely hampered the attack, leaving them without an out-and-out striker. This was followed by Marco Asensio’s decision not to renew, either, as he joined Paris Saint-Germain on a Bosman move.

Madrid decided not to shell out big money for a forward after signing Jude Bellingham for more than €100 million, and eventually brought in Joselu and Brahim Diaz to cover the roles.

Neither of them were expected to, or haven proven to cover the cracks properly, though, which likely means los blancos will scan the market for forwards in the winter and summer windows of 2024.

While the option to sign Kylian Mbappe and Erling Haaland is still open, Mario Cortegana has reported that Madrid are closely following former forward Takefuso Kubo, who has been performing brilliantly with Real Sociedad this season.

No contacts made

The report also states that while Madrid are keeping tabs on the Japanese youngster, they have not made any contacts with him, which could come to haunt them in the future if they look to sign him again.

Madrid sold Kubo for €6.5 million in the summer of 2022, but included 50% sell-on rights in his contract, which means they will receive half of any future transfer fee Sociedad receive from his sale.

Further, they also have the right of first refusal in the deal. Should a club bid for Kubo in the future, Madrid have the option of matching that bid and will get priority on his sale.

However, since they have not maintained any contacts with him, an agreement on personal terms may be difficult.