Real Madrid is keeping an eye on moves in the market that aren't related to its squad, but could unexpectedly fill the club's coffers.
Tottenham Hotspur appears ready to go after a footballer who's shining in LaLiga. What's more, he has a direct connection with the white club.
He's not a current Real Madrid player, but he's someone whose future could bring significant profits to Chamartín.
In this case, the key lies in an old deal that almost went unnoticed at the time. Now, it proves to be a true strategic success.
Kubo, the main protagonist
Take Kubo has established himself as one of the biggest stars at Real Sociedad. The Japanese international has taken a step up in quality at Anoeta. His performances have attracted the interest of Premier League clubs, who always keep an eye on young players with international potential.
According to British media, Tottenham would be willing to pay the €70 million ($70 million) that Real Sociedad has set as the price for the striker.
This is a significant figure that reflects the level Kubo has reached in recent seasons. It also shows his impact both in LaLiga and with the Japan national team.
The 50% deal
Real Madrid signed him at the time as a bet for the future and in 2022 sold 50% of his rights to Real Sociedad for €6 million ($6 million). It was a discreet deal that, however, opened the door to future profits in the event of a big-money transfer.
That scenario now seems to have arrived. If Tottenham completes the deal and pays €70 million ($70 million), the white club would automatically pocket €35 million ($35 million). That amount would be added to the €6 million ($6 million) it already received three years ago for the other 50%.
This is a deal that multiplies the initial investment (zero). It comes at a time when Florentino Pérez is looking to strengthen the club's finances without needing to sell any current squad members.
Florentino rubs his hands
For the Madrid president, these kinds of deals prove that patient and strategic management can also generate great profits.
It's not always necessary to sign or sell big stars to balance the books; sometimes, a well-placed percentage of rights turns into pure gold.
The possible sale of Kubo to Tottenham would not only benefit Real Madrid financially. It would also strengthen the club's image as an institution capable of discovering talent, giving it a path forward, and continuing to profit from its moves in the medium and long term.
The ball is now in Tottenham's court, and it must decide whether to make a strong move for Kubo. If it does, Bernabéu will celebrate another boardroom success that comes without sporting wear and tear and with a more than interesting profit.