Real Madrid loses a midfielder, Dani Ceballos, after several seasons at the club, as he officially says goodbye. The player himself confirmed it on his social media, with a classic "last dance" after finishing the last match. This gesture speaks of joy, but also of the end of an era.
In the coming hours, Ceballos could become an Olympique de Marseille player. His departure leaves a significant gap in the white midfield. However, the club knows they can't be left without a response.
The replacement Madrid is looking for
Real Madrid doesn't want to be left empty-handed. The idea is to find a replacement of the same level, and rumors are already pointing to England. Yesterday, the club's interest in a young Manchester United midfielder became known.
This is about Kobbie Mainoo, a 20-year-old player with a bright future. He hasn't fully broken out yet, but Rúben Amorim's lack of trust has put him on the market. This could make his departure easier in the coming hours.
Competition drives up the transfer fee
The problem for Madrid is that Mainoo isn't a secret; other Premier League teams have also set their sights on him. Chelsea and Tottenham are keeping an eye on his situation. This could raise the transfer fee to €50 million (about $54 million), according to Transfermarkt.
This is an amount that, at this point in the market, Real Madrid isn't considering paying. At least, not without a major sale to free up resources. That sale, for now, seems complicated.
The player's wink
Despite everything, Mainoo would be delighted to sign for Real Madrid. He even seems willing to leave Manchester United to play in white. However, time is ticking and the money involved complicates any operation.
Florentino Pérez and José Ángel Sánchez know they can't fall asleep. First, they must finalize Ceballos's departure and then, with Xabi Alonso, consider the possibility of a last-minute surprise signing.
The clock, the great enemy
Time is Madrid's enemy in these last weeks of the market. Every hour counts and every decision becomes critical. Ceballos is leaving, and with him, a clear need arises: to strengthen the midfield without exceeding budgets.
If the club decides to move forward with Mainoo, they'll have to negotiate quickly and intelligently. Not only because of competition from other clubs, but also to adjust the operation to the team's financial reality.