Real Madrid News
Real Madrid reach agreement in principle with Dortmund for Bellingham, signing imminent
After weeks of maintaining its status as the headline on major media outlets, the coverage of Jude Bellingham to Real Madrid took a back-foot in recent weeks. Yet, the sudden silence was not owing to a breakdown of talks.
Real Madrid have been in direct negotiations with Borussia Dortmund behind the scenes. After hours of deliberation and discussion, there is positive news for the Merengues.
According to reports from MARCA, Bellingham’s signing is all but confirmed. Only the last few details remain before the deal is officially closed.
As it stands, it appears that the midfielder will cost Real Madrid €100 million exclusive of add-ons. The aforementioned bonuses will be based on the number of games the youngster plays and his performance. Though there were talks of reducing the fee by including players in a swap deal, BVB never considered it a viable option.
The Merengues’ administration met up with Borussia Dortmund earlier this week in Germany and the two clubs have gone as far as to agree a deal in principle. Bellingham’s signing could thus be announced as early as next week.
The report further adds that several of Europe’s elite submitted offers for the young prodigy. In fact, multiple offers were superior to that put forth by Real Madrid. Yet, Bellingham was fixed on his dream of joining the Spanish giants and sacrificed economic gain for a place in Carlo Ancelotti’s team.
Bellingham will not be amongst the club’s highest-paid players next season. In fact, it would take him several years to reach a competitive figure on that front according to the terms agreed.
The Englishman will likely travel with the team for their preseason training and would hope to make an instant impact at his new club. After all, the competition in midfield at the club is very steep.
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.
