Real Madrid News
Real Madrid have not made an offer for Bellingham, claims Dortmund director
Earlier in the month, Borussia Dortmund sporting director Sebastian Kehl refused to comment on the future of Jude Bellingham, suggesting that the player is focusing on the ongoing Bundesliga title race, more than anything else.
In a recent interaction with the media, Kehl has iterated his position, adding that there have been no negotiations with Real Madrid or any club, regarding Bellingham.
“No offer on the table at the moment, no news, nothing to decide – Jude’s focused on the final games then we’ll see,” Kehl told ESPN (h/t Fabrizio Romano).
Kehl’s comments come against the backdrop of various sources linking Bellingham to a move to Real Madrid. The Spanish giants are confident of securing the services of the Englishman at the end of the season.
However, they are yet to reach an agreement with Dortmund regarding the transfer fee. It is going to be the trickiest part for the club, knowing BVB are likely to hold out for a hefty sum for the midfielder’s services.
When asked about any offers received for Bellingham, Kehl said the club do not have any guidelines and will do its best to keep hold of the midfielder beyond the summer.
“Astronomical bids? We’ve no guidelines. We always fight to keep the best players here,” he said.
Bellingham’s current contract at Dortmund expires in 2025. But the German giants have been trying to renew his deal by offering him a lucrative salary. However, it appears the player is determined to take the next step in his career, with Real Madrid a likely destination.
In the meantime, though, Bellingham will indeed look to focus on the Bundesliga title race. His team Dortmund are currently second in the table, trailing Bayern Munich by just a point with two matches remaining.
Real Madrid News
Mourinho considering starting 23-year-old Real Madrid ace against Villarreal – report
After impressing during the international break, Eduardo Camavinga has a major opportunity to establish himself in Real Madrid’s midfield rotation.
Indeed, according to Defensa Central, Jose Mourinho is considering starting the Frenchman against Villarreal, with injuries and doubts over several players limiting his options.
Real Madrid cannot afford to drop points against Villarreal if they want to remain in the title race. However, Mourinho has issues to deal with in the squad, which could lead him to turn to Camavinga for a crucial role.
Camavinga could replace Tchouameni in midfield
The 23-year-old star could line up as the defensive midfielder in the double pivot, with Bernardo Silva or Arda Guler alongside him, and will be tasked with providing balance in midfield.
Real Madrid face Villarreal with several problems in central defence. Ibrahima Konate is expected to be a late call, leading Mourinho to consider moving Aurelien Tchouameni into defence alongside Antonio Rudiger.
Meanwhile, Federico Valverde could also struggle to be ready after the ankle injury he sustained in the derby before the international break.
The Uruguayan has continued to work individually away from the group and might return to group training tomorrow. Even then, his readiness to start remains in question.
That would leave a place open in midfield, with Camavinga in line to fill in.
Camavinga impressed during the international break
Camavinga has started only one match this season, the defeat against Real Betis.
Despite his limited opportunities, Mourinho is keen to bring the Frenchman back into the fold after he impressed for France during the international break.
Zinedine Zidane called the Real Madrid star up for his first France squad, and the midfielder performed well during the break.
That has given Mourinho and Real Madrid reason to be optimistic about using him against Villarreal, with the hope that he can move closer to the level he showed after first arriving at the club.
Therefore, the Villarreal match could represent an important test for Camavinga and a chance for the Frenchman to show that he can provide the balance Real Madrid need in midfield.
