Real Madrid News
Sources: Real Madrid reach an agreement with Haaland’s entourage
Alexander Alcazar of SPORT has sensationally claimed that Real Madrid have reached an agreement to sign Erling Haaland from Borussia Dortmund in the summer after striking a deal with his representatives in Monaco.
As relayed by the Spanish media, Madrid’s representative Juni Calafat met with Rafaela Pimenta, a Brazilian lawyer and Mino Raiola’s right-hand man, as well as footballer’s father Alf-Inge Haaland, to close the deal in the Monegasque Principality.
It is believed that the primary reason for Calafat’s visit to Monaco was to establish the first contacts that would open the doors for the club to sign the French midfielder Aurélien Tchouameni.
It’s important to note that the event dates back to January and this is exactly when Madrid executives contacted Pimenta and Haaland Sr. as they are the people who are responsible for blocking negotiations.
Real Madrid and Borussia Dortmund enjoy a healthy working relationship and the German team is well aware of the interest their forward has gathered. While it is certain that the Norweigian will not continue in the Bundesliga beyond this season, it will take a considerable amount to convince Dortmund to sell their frontman.
Madrid, however, already have a plan in place. Their idea is to offer an initial bid of €75 million and reduce the price gradually by offering Luka Jovic in exchange. Although the Serbian has struggled to cope with the style in Spain, his stocks in German Bundesliga have always attracted suitors.
Offering a player in exchange will reduce Dortmund’s workload of finding a suitor, making it a win-win situation for all parties involved.
Life is not all rainbows and sunshine though and Madrid are expected to learn this the hard way. Despite striking a deal with the player’s entourages, the final verdict will be that of the striker.
Furthermore, even if Madrid somehow manage to get their man, superintending a star-studded attacking unit will prove to be a headache.
Speaking of which, Benzema has a contract until 2023 and is extremely likely to see out his deal. That coupled with the potential arrival of Kylian Mbappe leaves Vinicius Jr. as nothing but a third wheel. Accommodating the Brazil forward will be difficult for Carlo Ancelloti.
But that’s the risk the Madrid management is willing to take.
There is no secret that Real Madrid might consider a move for a new striker in the coming summer. With Karim Benzema slowly nearing the end of his career, the club are looking for a viable alternative ahead of the new season.
Carlo Ancelotti has been left impressed by the performances of Rodrygo in the centre forward position. But the club could still use the services of a more recognised option in the number nine position.
The Spanish giants are reportedly assessing La Liga for a potential low-cost option. But they are also open to looking through in other leagues, in their bid to add more depth in the attacking department.
To that end, Fabrizio Romano claims Real Madrid are eyeing a swoop for Roberto Firmino. The Liverpool star has become the latest player to be shortlisted by Los Blancos, with his current contract at Liverpool expiring at the end of the season.
Formerly of TSG Hoffenheim, Firmino has a stellar track record of performing in Europe. He has scored 110 goals in 361 competitive matches during his time at Liverpool, winning the Premier League and the Champions League title.
A centre forward by trade, Roberto is known for his tactical flexibility and the ability to shift into wider areas to build up the player.
It makes him an appealing target for Real Madrid, who would prefer a versatile striker in their ranks that can not only provide cover for Benzema but also the likes of Vinicius Junior and Rodrygo.
Real Madrid, though, are yet to hold any discussions with Roberto Firmino just yet. He has just been added to the list of targets and one would expect the Spanish giants to make a move once the season is over and the player becomes a free agent.
