Real Madrid consider SHOCK move for Barcelona transfer target

Cameron Smith

10 Sept 2023 15:30 BST
4 min read

Carlo Ancelotti, Real Madrid — © ProShots

Real Madrid are eyeing up a move for Manchester City forward Julian Alvarez as they attempt to sign a replacement for Karim Benzema.

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Carlo Ancelotti’s side lost Benzema on a free transfer to Saudi Pro League side Al-Ittihad this summer and their only forward addition was former Newcastle United striker Joselu on loan.

Fellow summer signing Jude Bellingham has taken on the attacking mantle since his arrival at the Santiago Bernabeu, with the England international netting five goals and contributing one assist in his opening four Los Blancos appearances.

However, Vinicius Junior’s injury has highlighted the lack of attacking depth at Ancelotti’s disposal following their failure to sign Kylian Mbappe.

The Frenchman informed Paris Saint-Germain that he will not be signing a contract extension and will leave in 2024, which led to a brief period away from the first-team squad and on the transfer list.

But, Real Madrid did not make a concerted effort to sign Mbappe and they missed out on the former AS Monaco star.

Now, Man City forward Alvarez is on their radar, according to Spanish outlet Fichajes, via Football Espana.

Alvarez to Real Madrid?

Alvarez, 23, played second fiddle to the record-breaking Erling Haaland at the Etihad Stadium during his debut campaign at Man City, but he still mustered 49 appearances and 17 goals in all competitions in 2022-23.

He also won the World Cup with Argentina and has been nominated for the 2023 Ballon d’Or.

Now, Real Madrid are reportedly ready to push to sign Alvarez as they look for a long-term replacement for Benzema. Ancelotti has preferred a 4-4-2 diamond formation this season, which has seen Vinicius Jr and Rodrygo used as split strikers with Bellingham as an advanced midfielder.

However, Real lack a pure number nine with a track history of scoring goals at the highest level - Alvarez could be that man.

If Alvarez was to sign for Real Madrid, he would join a young crop of players that includes the likes of Eduardo Camavinga, Aurelien Tchouameni, Arda Guler and the aforementioned Bellingham, Vinicius Jr and Rodrygo.