1. Real Madrid’s Defensive Relief
According to Diario AS, Real Madrid welcomes back center-back Jesus Vallejo from injury. He is expected to partner with Antonio Rudiger in the friendly against AC Milan at Soldier Field. Currently, they are the only available center-backs, as Eder Militao is on summer break after Copa America 2024 and David Alaba is still recovering from an ACL injury.
2. Real Madrid’s Missed Opportunity with Bastoni
In an interview on Sky Sport Italia, Tulio Tinzi, agent of Inter Milan’s Alessandro Bastoni, revealed that Bastoni declined an offer from Real Madrid in the past. When Real Madrid’s defense was in crisis with injuries to Alaba and Militao, they approached Bastoni, but both he and Inter were uninterested in moving to Spain.
3. Ancelotti Confirms Transfer Plans
Despite having only four center-backs after Nacho’s departure, and the need to compete on multiple fronts, Coach Carlo Ancelotti confirmed on Diario AS that Real Madrid has closed their transfer window with the additions of Kylian Mbappe and Endrick Felipe. “We have defined our squad for next season. Vallejo is back, Alaba is recovering, and we have young talents like Jacobo, Martinez, and Asencio. Everyone is happy at the club,” Ancelotti stated.
4. Last Chance for Youth Star
Real Madrid recently sold five La Fabrica academy talents: Rafa Marin, Alex Jimenez, Marvin Park, Peter Federico, and Alvaro Carrillo. According to Diario AS, Alvaro Rodriguez could be next to leave if he doesn’t impress Ancelotti during the U.S. tour. The coach plans to give Rodriguez ample playing time to showcase his abilities.
5. Reduced Asking Price for Lunin
The future of goalkeeper Andriy Lunin at Real Madrid remains uncertain. Despite being offered a new five-year contract, Lunin hesitates due to the prospect of being second choice to Thibaut Courtois. Reports from Spain indicate Real Madrid is willing to sell Lunin for €30 million, but The Athletic suggests they have now reduced the asking price to €20 million after negotiations with his agent Jorge Mendes.
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