Real Madrid News
Real Madrid will officially bid for ‘chosen’ Liverpool star with strong Bellingham ties
Real Madrid are reportedly looking to strengthen their right-back position, with Liverpool’s Trent Alexander-Arnold emerging as their top target.
According to a report by Jose Felix Diaz in MARCA, the club has been discussing several potential candidates, but Alexander-Arnold remains their preferred option.
Following Dani Carvajal’s recent injury, Real Madrid’s management has recognised the need to reinforce the right-back role soon.
Although they trust Lucas Vazquez to fill in temporarily, the long-term solution lies in finding a younger replacement for their ageing players in that position.
Among the various names considered, Alexander-Arnold stands out as the most attractive option. His contract with Liverpool expires in June 2025, making him an appealing prospect for many clubs.
The English defender has become highly sought after, not just for his current performances but also because of his uncertain future at Liverpool.
The operation is not straightforward
In recent days, the possibility of Alexander-Arnold moving to Real Madrid has gained more traction, but much depends on whether he renews his contract with Liverpool.
Interestingly, Jude Bellingham could be a vital catalyst in this pursuit as his influence could play a big role.
If he chooses not to extend his stay, Real Madrid could make a move, as long as his salary fits within the club’s wage structure.
At 26 years old, he could join Real Madrid on a free transfer if he sees out his contract at Liverpool. A summer arrival would likely come at a minimal cost, but if Real Madrid opt to secure his services in January, it could involve a transfer fee.
It has been suggested that the club is intrigued by his versatility, as he is not just an attacking full-back but also capable of playing in midfield, a role where his ball control and vision could prove valuable.
For that matter, Carlo Ancelotti would be pleased to have such a talented player in his squad. The coming weeks will be crucial as the club monitors Alexander-Arnold’s situation at Liverpool and prepares for any potential opportunities.
Real Madrid News
Rayo Vallecano manager names the one Real Madrid figure he would remove from the team
Rayo Vallecano face a daunting trip to the Santiago Bernabeu to take on a wounded Real Madrid this weekend.
Life after Inigo Perez has not been kind to the Vallecas-based club, who have already had to travel to Camp Nou and now face a trip to the home of their city giants.
Speaking ahead of the game (h/t Madrid Xtra), Rayo Vallecano manager Benat San Jose was asked which Real Madrid player he would like to remove from the team before this weekend’s game.
Surprisingly, his choice was not Kylian Mbappe, Vinicius Junior or Thibaut Courtois.
“Mourinho”
Asked which Madrid player he would take out of the upcoming contest, Benat jokingly chose the man sitting on the opposition bench.
“Which Real Madrid player I’d remove from the match against them? Mourinho,” Benat said with a laugh.
The answer might have been delivered jokingly, but the Rayo coach immediately made clear just how highly he rates the Portuguese manager.
“He’s one of the best managers in history,” he added.
It is significant praise ahead of Saturday’s meeting at the Bernabeu.
Madrid’s squad contains enough individual quality to give any opposition coach several obvious answers, but Benat instead highlighted the influence Mourinho can have over the entire team.
That has become particularly relevant since the Portuguese coach returned to Madrid. His early work has focused on making a talented group function with greater collective discipline.
Courtois and Madrid’s attack also praised
Benat did not stop with the manager.
“They also have one of the best GKs in history and one of the best attackers in history,” he said.
Benat will definitely have seen how Thibaut Courtois played against Inter Milan in midweek and will hope that version does not turn up again this weekend.
Even when teams manage to create opportunities against Madrid, they still have to beat one of the defining goalkeepers of his generation.
At the opposite end, Madrid possess attacking quality capable of turning a match on its head.
The likes of Kylian Mbappe, Vinicius Junior and Jude Bellingham can all decide matches single-handedly.
Madrid have a point to prove
Madrid are coming off a disappointing loss to Real Betis in La Liga last weekend and will come into this game with a point to prove.
They will want to ensure that the loss to the Andalusian club was a one-off and that they return to winning ways against Rayo.
Their title rivals, Barça, have been flying high in the league, scoring goals and picking opponents apart for fun.
Madrid need to ensure that they do not hand too much early incentive to Barça, and it remains to be seen how Los Blancos fare against Rayo Vallecano.
