Real Madrid News
Sources: Real Madrid keeping tabs on Inter Milan midfielder but face resistance over fee
According to Real Madrid Confidencial, Real Madrid have set their sights on Inter Milan midfielder Nicolo Barella as a priority target to strengthen their midfield.
The Italian star is seen by many at the club as a potential long-term replacement for Luka Modric, and his profile perfectly fits the kind of player Real Madrid are looking for.
However, it is said that although Inter Milan are open to letting Barella go, they have set an asking price of between €60 million and €65 million.
For Real Madrid, that figure is currently considered too high, especially since Inter are showing no signs of lowering their demands.
Real Madrid weighing their options
It is no secret that Barella has been one of Inter Milan’s standout players in recent seasons. His technical ability, vision, work rate, and leadership have made him one of the top midfielders in Europe.
He played a key role in Inter’s run to the Champions League final last season, and his consistent performances have earned him comparisons to Modric.
However, according to reports, negotiations will not be easy.
This is because Inter’s asking price is considered non-negotiable, and Real Madrid president Florentino Perez has decided to pause talks for now while looking for alternative ways to make the deal happen.
Operation on stand-by
Real Madrid believe that under Xabi Alonso, who wants to sign a midfielder, Barella could develop even further and become a key figure at the Bernabeu.
For now, though, the operation is on standby. Inter Milan are not desperate to sell and are making it clear that Barella won’t leave unless the full amount is paid.
The challenge now falls to Perez, who must decide whether to push ahead or wait for conditions to change.
Despite the obstacles, Real Madrid are unlikely to completely give up on Barella. They know his qualities and understand what he could bring to the squad.
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.
