Ex-Real Madrid star wants to return

Karan Tejwani
Karan Tejwani
  • 3 May 2022 17:43 BST
  • 3 min read
Raul de Tomas, Espanyol, 2021/22
© ProShots

Prior to beginning their La Liga celebrations over the weekend after their match against Espanyol, the Real Madrid fans applauded former academy player Raul de Tomas off the pitch.

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The supporters gave De Tomas a standing ovation, but it may not be the last time that happens as the forward has kept the door open for a return to the newly-crowned Spanish champions.

Speaking about a potential return, De Tomas said he would be looking forward to it should the opportunity arise: “Of course, yes. Of course, I would be excited. I feel like it’s my home, where I grew up.”

How good has De Tomas been this season?

This season, De Tomas has been in excellent form and arguably Espanyol’s most important player, netting 15 league goals and ensuring the club’s survival in the Spanish top-flight.

It follows on from last season, when De Tomas spearheaded Espanyol’s promotion push from the Segunda division, as he netted 23 league goals to help his club make a swift return to La Liga.

It is well-known that should De Tomas make a return to Real Madrid, he would have to play second-fiddle to Karim Benzema, who has had the best season of his career.

A stumbling block for any possible deal would be the cost of the transfer – it’s believed that De Tomas is valued at €40 million, and with Real Madrid close to signing Kylian Mbappe, they will want to spend money on improving other positions ahead of the next campaign, where they will want to build on their La Liga success.

Other than Mbappe, there are other players that Real Madrid will be targeting, such as Monaco’s Aurelien Tchouameni, Manchester City’s Pedro Porro, who is currently on loan at Sporting and Chelsea’s Reece James.

Another forward isn’t a priority at the minute, but it’s something to consider for the future and would make for an emotional return for the forward.

Read more about: La Liga, Espanyol, Real Madrid, Raul

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