Real Madrid News
Real Madrid set sights on Manchester City baller as possible Bellingham alternative
There is no doubt that Real Madrid are expected to enter the market for a new midfielder in the coming summer.
Although Luka Modric is ready to extend his spell at Santiago Bernabeu, the veteran is in the final phase of his career. Signing a new midfielder, therefore, could be the need of the hour.
Jude Bellingham is the main target for Real Madrid at the end of the season. However, according to ESPN, Manchester City appear to be leading the race to sign Bellingham, which has led to Real Madrid considering other alternatives.
The Whites have been recently linked with a move for Spanish youngster Gabri Veiga. But the report points out that another alternative could be none other than Bernardo Silva.
The Portuguese international, who has been heavily linked with a move to Barcelona for the past few years now, is facing an uncertain future at the club. It appears the player himself is keen on seeking a new adventure elsewhere, with Barça among the options.
Although Silva has hinted at his desire to play for Barcelona in the past, the Man City star will be well aware of the club’s financial situation and as such, could be open to other opportunities.
That is where Real Madrid come into the fray. With the club lacking a reliable option in the attacking midfield position, Silva could prove to be an ideal target.
The Portuguese international offers extensive experience at the highest level, which is coupled with his versatility and technical prowess – making him a tailor-made fit for Real Madrid.
Manchester City have made it clear in the past that they will not stand in the way of any player who wants to leave, as long as a good enough offer arrives. Silva could potentially cost lesser than Bellingham, which could appeal to Real Madrid.
But, with Barça lurking as well, it might not be straightforward for the current champions of Spain to land the Manchester City superstar.
Speaking to the media, Brazil Football Confederations (CBF) president Ednaldo Rodrigues has claimed that the Selecao have not given up on their pursuit of Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti, despite the Italian stating that he will not leave the club.
Brazil have been without a manager since the World Cup in Qatar last year, following which Tite stepped down. The CBF have made Ancelotti their top target and have been pursuing his signing for months but to no avail.
The 63-year-old Italian tactician has, on more than one occasion, made it clear that he will be at Real Madrid next season, with his contract expiring in 2024.
However, CBF president Rodrigues is adamant that Ancelotti’s statements are due to him being cautious as he is under contract at Real Madrid and that the Selecao are not prepared to give up on their quest to appoint him as of yet.
“We made a plan, that ‘Plan A’ is the one you know, Ancelotti, and as they say in the ‘ring’ (boxing), I haven’t thrown in the towel yet,” Rodrigues said (h/t Mundo Deportivo).
“Because of contracts, people are cautious,” he added.
Ancelotti, for his part, has repeatedly stated that he does not intend to leave Real Madrid unless he is forced out of the club.
Despite missing out on the La Liga and the UEFA Champions League titles last season, the club continue to back the veteran Italian and are planning for next season with him in charge.
So, despite Rodrigues’ confidence and perseverance, it is extremely unlikely that Ancelotti will be leaving Real Madrid for Brazil this summer.
