Real Madrid News
Transfers: Real Madrid will listen to offers for €40 million-rated defender
Marcelo Viera defined an era at left-back for Real Madrid. The Brazilian had his name engraved in stone in the starting lineup for several years until age caught up with him in his final years at the club.
With the club legend now no longer a part of the dynamics, Carlo Ancelotti must restore order in the left-back department. As it stands, there are two contenders to take over the duties – Ferland Mendy and David Alaba.
According to reports from Relevo, the Austrian international is Ancelotti’s first choice to start at left-back for the coming season. Meanwhile, Ferland Mendy’s future at the club is far from guaranteed.
Los Blancos are willing to part ways with the Frenchman and are listening to offers. If an interesting proposal arrives on the table, he will leave the club this summer. However, if Mendy stays, he will compete with Alaba for a starting spot.
In the event of the Frenchman’s transfer, Real Madrid eye two options to take his place. Fran Garcia has been on the agenda for several months now after his successful spell at Rayo Vallecano. He would be available for a fee of €10 million but the figure could reduce by half during negotiations.
The other option on the table is Miguel Gutierrez, who is looking for a loan in the first division. He currently plays for Real Madrid Castilla and could become a serious option if his defensive numbers improve.
It is not surprising that Ancelotti counts on Alaba as his primary option. Though the former Bayern Munich player performed exquisitely at centre-back for the team last season, his natural position is at left-back.
With Antonio Rudiger set to take up responsibilities alongside Eder Miltao next season, the idea of reverting Alaba to his natural role could reap solid rewards for the Champions of Europe. At the same time, it would close the curtains for Mendy at the club.
In 22 league appearances for Real Madrid last season, the Frenchman scored two goals and provided just one assist. He oversaw five clean sheets and averaged close to seven defensive actions per game.
Stats via Transfermarkt
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.
