Real Madrid News
Real Madrid in ‘no rush’ to sign a new centre-forward this summer
Contrasting reports continue to circulate over Real Madrid’s tricky situation at centre-forward. While Los Blancos have arguably the best striker in world football in the form of Karim Benzema, their bench strength in the department is exceptionally poor.
According to reports from MARCA, Real Madrid are working on the arrival of a centre-striker. The need for a new number 9 is well known in the club offices. Yet, ironically, the same outlet report that there is no urgency.
Over the past few days, Carlo Ancelotti’s side have been linked to a plethora of strikers. With veterans, youngsters and even teenage stars rumoured with a chance of filling the void, it is clear that the club see it as an important objective.
Chelsea’s Timo Werner is one of the big names rumoured to be considered, but the Premier League side will not let him go cheap. More economical options like Raul De Tomas, too, are on the table.
Amongst the younger stars linked with the Galacticos are Jonathan Burkadt, Sasa Kalajdzic, Roko Simic, Brian Brobbey and Noah Okafor.
With Benzema in imperious form, it is clear that a new signing will not see much game time. This could prompt the club to look for a temporary plug this season and to sign a long-term prospect in the next window.
It remains to be seen as to such route the club opts for. Either way, Mariano Diaz and Borja Mayoral’s departure from the club is the preliminary step necessary before signing any striker, and that is the focus at the moment.
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.
