Real Madrid News
Real Madrid weighing up a move for La Liga winger with €60 million release clause
Following their disappointing defeat to Manchester City in the UEFA Champions League semi-finals, Real Madrid are looking to make some changes in the summer as far as their roster is concerned.
A new striker to provide cover and competition for Karim Benzema is likely to be a priority, along with Jude Bellingham, and a new full-back.
Beyond that, according to a report from journalist Tomas Gonzalez-Martin on El Debate, Real Madrid could also explore the market for a new winger, with Villarreal speedster Samuel Chukwueze emerging as a possible target.
The right flank has been somewhat of a concern for Real Madrid despite Rodrygo’s impressive displays. The Brazilian is not a natural wide player and tends to operate better while drifting inside.
So, it might be a good idea for Carlo Ancelotti & co. to bring in someone like Chukwueze, who would add a different dimension to their attacking line from the right wing.
The 23-year-old Nigerian international is enjoying a fine season, having racked up 13 goals and 11 assists from 46 appearances in all competitions. He put in a brilliant performance against Real Madrid last month, scoring a brace in Villarreal’s 3-2 win.
As such, Los Blancos have been impressed by Chukwueze and are considering a move for him in the summer.
The Nigerian international’s current contract with the Yellow Submarines runs until 2024 and has a release clause worth €60 million.
As per the report, if Real Madrid were to act on their interest in him, they would look to offer a player as part of the operation to reduce the transfer fee.
With Real Madrid hoping to part ways with Eden Hazard and Mariano Diaz, and Marco Asensio’s continuity still not guaranteed, adding another forward would make sense and Chukwueze, given his age and proven pedigree in La Liga, can be a solid option.
But whether the Merengues are willing to go after the Villarreal ace especially after planning a huge outlay on Bellingham remains to be seen.
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.
