Real Madrid News
Sources: Liverpool launch early strike to beat Real Madrid for midfield target
Real Madrid may be bracing themselves for an early transfer setback, as a report from Defensa Central suggests that Liverpool have already opened discussions with Crystal Palace over rising midfielder Adam Wharton.
The two clubs have often found themselves competing both on the pitch and in the transfer market, and this situation appears to be another chapter in their growing rivalry.
In recent months, both Real Madrid and Liverpool have been monitoring a similar profile of young, high-potential players.
While their interest in Dayot Upamecano has been well documented, Wharton has quietly emerged as the latest shared target.
His evolution at Crystal Palace has caught the attention of scouts across Europe, but Liverpool seem determined not to let this pursuit slip through their grasp.
Blow for Real Madrid?
Reports from England indicate that Liverpool have already initiated direct contact with Crystal Palace to understand the financial framework of a future deal.
Their aim is to discover the fee required and make the first formal move. This approach is intended to give Liverpool control of the negotiation before Real Madrid decide to accelerate their own plans.
Liverpool’s attempt is centred on securing Wharton for the 2026 summer window, and the club appear ready to authorise a significant outlay to make it happen.
What about Real Madrid?
Meanwhile, Real Madrid’s interest remains strong. The club see Wharton as a midfielder capable of anchoring the team for many years at the Bernabeu.
The club views him as a strategic acquisition, one who fits the club’s modern direction.
Liverpool’s early steps, however, are driven by a clear motive. They know Real Madrid are watching closely, and they are determined not to repeat past mistakes in the market.
By acting quickly, they hope to avoid losing a high-value player to the Spanish giants.
Real Madrid News
Real Madrid forward Vinicius Jr. admits finishing problem after another frustrating night vs Elche: ‘Can’t miss that much’
Vinicius Jr.’s difficult start in front of goal continued against Elche, and the Real Madrid forward did not need anyone to tell him he had missed another chance to make the difference.
The Brazilian finished the night without a goal despite having chances to get on the scoresheet, while his teammates could only watch from the bench as opportunities went begging.
Jose Mourinho had already identified the problem before kick-off, bluntly pointing to the issue facing his forward, stating, “He’s missing the goal.”
Vini offered an equally frank assessment afterwards.
Rather than hide from another frustrating evening, he accepted responsibility on social media: “The goals will come back; I can’t miss that much…”
Two chances, no finish for Vinicius
Vinicius had two particularly clear openings against Elche, but neither produced the finish Real Madrid needed from their star forward.
The first arrived when he found himself one-on-one with the opposition goalkeeper.
Instead of finding the net, Vinicius caught the ball with the tip of his foot and sent his effort wide. Arda Guler was available during the move and called for the ball, but Vini backed himself to finish the chance.
He had another opportunity after the interval, this time following an excellent pass from Guler during a quick Real Madrid transition. Again, though, Vinicius could not find the target.
His evening ended in the 68th minute, with Mourinho deciding the Brazilian was tired and turning his attention towards Sunday’s Atletico Madrid derby.
Mourinho has a bigger decision to make
The numbers show why Vinicius’ finishing has become a talking point. He managed five shots against Elche, but only one was on target and none found the net.
After seven appearances this season, the Brazilian has scored just once, which is a striking return for a player Real Madrid rely upon to provide a major share of their attacking threat.
Ultimately, though, Real Madrid found another route to victory, with Arda Guler, Kylian Mbappe and Carlos Espi providing the goals in the 3-2 comeback.
