Real Madrid News
Real Madrid right on the brink of signing Atletico Madrid’s highly-rated talent
According to a report from AS, it has been learned that Real Madrid are set to complete the signing of highly-rated youngster Victor Correa, better known as Viti.
The 2013-born talent arrives from the academy of Atletico Madrid, marking a deal which touches on a long-standing, unofficial understanding between the two rivals.
For years, both Madrid clubs operated under an unwritten rule – avoid directly targeting each other’s youth prospects.
It was never formalised, but it existed as a sign of mutual respect in one of football’s fiercest city rivalries.
That boundary, however, has now clearly been crossed for the first time after Jesus Fortea moved in 2022.
Real Madrid’s La Fabrica has become increasingly aggressive in its recruitment approach recently.
They are no longer limiting themselves when it comes to sourcing top young talent and the capture of Viti explains that evolution.
Who is Victor Correa?
The young left-back is widely regarded as one of the most promising players in Atletico’s youth system.
His performances at youth level have already set him apart, particularly during the recent La Liga Futures International Tournament, where he played a key role in his team’s success.
His impact in that competition did not go unnoticed, as Viti not only helped his side lift the trophy but was also recognised as the standout performer, earning the MVP award.
According to the outlet, the transfer is now in its final stages. While a few formalities remain, the deal is effectively agreed, with the player already beginning to say his goodbyes within the Atletico setup.
It must be noted that Real Madrid have been placing increased emphasis on identifying and securing elite youth talent early, ensuring that the next generation of stars is developed within their own system.
By bringing in Viti, they are ensuring that no academy, not even that of their fiercest rivals, is off-limits if the talent is worth it.
Real Madrid News
Real Madrid hope captain will resume group training tomorrow and be ready for Villarreal
Real Madrid received a major boost in training today as Kylian Mbappe participated in the group session, indicating his readiness for the upcoming game against Villarreal.
The French superstar had returned from international duty with a knee injury, but seems to have left it behind and appears ready to start at the Santiago Bernabeu come Saturday.
What about Federico Valverde?
Now, according to AS, Federico Valverde was not part of the group training session today at Valdebebas. Instead, he was involved in an individual session away from his teammates.
However, Real Madrid hope that their club captain will be able to resume working with the rest of the squad on Thursday, putting him in the fray to return in time for Saturday’s clash against Villarreal.
Valverde is currently recovering from an ankle sprain that he sustained in Real Madrid’s 2-1 derby defeat against Atletico Madrid prior to the international break.
The Uruguayan midfielder was on the receiving end of a harsh tackle from Kang-In Lee, which left him injured, ruling him out of action for the national team.
The 28-year-old stayed behind in Madrid and has worked hard on his recovery, with things progressing in the right direction.
What now remains to be seen is whether he can jump back into group training session on Thursday, which would put him on the path to return to action against Villarreal.
A key player for Mourinho
So far this season, Valverde has emerged as a permanent fixture in the team under new manager Jose Mourinho.
The Real Madrid captain has started all of the team’s eight matches in all competitions this term, scoring and assisting one goal apiece.
His potential availability for Saturday’s clash against Villarreal will come as a major boost for Mourinho & co. Everything will depend on how things progress in tomorrow’s training session at Valdebebas.
With Ibrahima Konate also recovering from his knee sprain, Real Madrid have only three players sidelined currently: Raul Asencio, who recently underwent surgery, Rodrygo Goes, who is a long-term absentee, and Ferland Mendy, who has resumed work with the ball.
