Real Madrid News
Real Madrid retain interest in €110 million Chelsea, Liverpool defensive target
Real Madrid’s primary objective for the upcoming summer transfer window is the midfield. In Jude Bellingham and Enzo Fernandez, the Merengues have chased some of the world’s brightest stars without batting an eye at the price tag.
However, the centre-back department is in equal need of reinforcements come next season. Although it doesn’t appear so at first sight, David Alaba and Antonio Rudiger’s age brings perspective to the statement, while Nacho Fernandez’s future is uncertain as wel.
Thus, according to reports from AS, Josko Gvardiol continues to keep his place on Real Madrid’s wishlist as one of the main targets.
The Croatian international lit up the world at the 2022 FIFA World Cup but refused to make a big-money move in the winter transfer window. In June, he is expected to take the next big step in his career.
The 21-year-old has been Marco Rose’s most reliable asset in the back line of RB Leipzig, making 20 appearances in the Bundesliga with 15 starts. In that duration, he oversaw three clean sheets averaging over seven defensive actions per game.
The Croat’s contract with the German side runs until the summer of 2027, and his transfer is expected to involve a massive fee. In fact, the release clause on his deal stands at a towering €110 million.
The Merengues are also scouting the likes of Antonio Silva as a possible signing in central defense. While both options are viable, the final decision will come down to the economics involved.
Real Madrid are not the only club eyeing Gvardiol. Liverpool, Chelsea and PSG are just a few of the numerous European giants pursuing the young defender’s signature, thus further complicating the pricey operation.
A final decision over the club’s interest in the player will only thus be made in the weeks leading into the transfer window.
Manchester City have made Real Madrid transfer target Jude Bellingham their top priority for the summer window, according to AS.
The 19-year-old is one of the most sought-after midfielders in Europe currently, with several elite teams intent on securing his services before next season.
Borussia Dortmund, for their part, are intent on keeping hold of their prized asset for at least one more season. However, it is looking increasingly likely that Bellingham will be on the move come summer.
Liverpool were also in the mix, but their struggles this season have seemingly seen them fade away in the race, with Manchester City and Real Madrid left as the frontrunners.
Real Madrid, for their part, are pushing hard to sign Bellingham, who will likely cost around €150 million. However, the Merengues will need to be wary of the interest from Manchester City, who have the England star at the top of their summer shopping list as per AS.
The Premier League champions are likely to lose Ilkay Gundogan this summer, with his contract expiring at the end of the season. The German international has been heavily linked with a Bosman move to Barcelona.
Meanwhile, there is no certainty over the future of Bernardo Silva as well, with the Portuguese international linked with PSG and, interestingly Real Madrid as well, as a possible alternative for Bellingham.
Given the circumstances, City are gunning to sign Bellingham. And they have the financial muscle to outbid Real Madrid while they could also offer a much more lucrative contract to the teenage midfielder.
As for Real Madrid, Bellingham is seen as the heir to Luka Modric, who could be on his way out this year itself, if he does not renew, or next year if he does sign a new contract.
Either way, the ex-Birmingham City ace is seen as a key puzzle in Los Blancos’ midfield transition from the old to the new. And it remains to be seen if the reigning European champions can beat Man City to his capture.
