Real Madrid News
Real Madrid want to renew ‘hard-working’ 23-year-old ace
Initially, Thibaut Courtois’ injury ahead of an important month ahead, including El Clasico, was thought to be problematic. However, second-choice goalkeeper Andriy Lunin has picked up the sticks brilliantly in the Belgian’s absence.
In fact, the Ukrainian goalkeeper can be credited for Real Madrid’s only clean sheet this season in the league vs Getafe. He made two saves during the game, but as a modern-day goalkeeper, Lunin adds incredible depth to the team’s fluidity.
Real Madrid are very happy with Lunin, and in particular, his ball-playing ability. As such, according to ABC (h/t MadridXtra) they want to extend his contract, but the player will take the final decision.
The 23-year-old’s contract is valid till 2024, which gives Los Blancos ample time to convince him to renew. However, they will likely not stand in his way if he wants to leave.
Carlo Ancelotti called Lunin ‘shy’, but ‘hard-working’ in one of his earlier press conferences this season. He has, however, noticed that his confidence is increasing every passing game.
This was especially evident against Barcelona, where he took a ton of risk with the ball, playing late passes to break the visitors’ first line of press.
The report also states that Lunin was disappointed about the goal he conceded against Shakhtar Donetsk away from home, and wants to learn from his ‘mistake’.
The coaching staff convinced him that it was, in no way, shape, or form, his fault, though, and that they still trust him to the best of his abilities.
Unsurprisingly, his main goal is to achieve the best of the best at Real Madrid, but faces competition from arguably the best player in his position – Courtois, who seems all set to pick up the Yashin Trophy for the best goalkeeper at the Ballon d’Or gala tonight.
One of the main objectives for Real Madrid this summer was to bring in a new central midfielder capable of controlling the tempo and dictating the play from the middle.
A move for Rodri was in the works before the Spain captain decided to sign for FC Barcelona. The Merengues assessed several other options, but ended up not signing any player, with Jose Mourinho deciding to use Bernardo Silva in the double pivot.
One of the midfielders that Real Madrid were looking at as an option was Adam Wharton of Crystal Palace.
The England international has been on the club’s radar for a while now, but the Premier League club never opened the door for a summer departure.
Wharton could be on the market in 2027
However, now, according to The Guardian (h/t Bernabeu Digital), That stance could change next year, as that Palace would be prepared to consider selling Wharton during the next summer transfer window.
As mentioned already, Real Madrid have closely followed Wharton’s situation throughout the summer, although the club ultimately decided against making any further additions to their midfield.
Manchester City and Chelsea also showed serious interest in signing the England international during the summer. However, Crystal Palace were unwilling to sell, effectively ruling out a move for the midfielder.
But it appears that they could open the doors for Wharton to leave in the summer of 2027, potentially paving the way for Real Madrid to make a move.
Real Madrid continue to monitor Wharton
Real Madrid are expected to keep a close eye on Wharton’s progress ahead of the 2027 market. Should they decide they need another high-quality midfielder, the 22-year-old could once again emerge as a candidate.
Manchester City may be less likely to return for Wharton after strengthening their midfield significantly this summer.
Chelsea, however, could remain a potential competitor after failing to add a player in the position during the latest window.
For now, Wharton will remain at Crystal Palace, but the club’s willingness to consider a sale next summer means the midfielder could become a realistic option for Real Madrid in 2027.
