The situation of Andriy Lunin at Real Madrid has never been easy. Since his arrival, he has lived in the shadow of one of the best goalkeepers in the world: Thibaut Courtois. Every season began with the hope of having more prominence, but he ended up relegated to the bench.
Despite this, whenever Carlo Ancelotti has had to trust him, Lunin has replied with confidence, reflexes, and character. This season has been another example that the Ukrainian has the level to be a starter in a great team. But for him, minutes are not a reward, but a necessity.
A Future Without Ancelotti
At Real Madrid, they know that Ancelotti's cycle is nearing its end. The club is already planning for the future, and that includes a possible restructuring in the goalkeeping position. Although they value Lunin, they also consider signing another goalkeeper who can compete or even replace Courtois in the medium term.
Here comes an important detail: Lunin's contract. Although renewed until 2030, there is a verbal agreement that would allow him to leave if an interesting offer arrives. That offer has already come.
Atleti Makes a Move
Atlético de Madrid has gone after Lunin, according to Defensa Central. They know they need a reliable goalkeeper for the future and have put a transfer of 25 million euros on the table. It's not just any team: it's Real Madrid's number one rival in the capital, and that complicates things a lot.
At Atleti, they are even determined to pay the clause of another goalkeeper (Espanyol's), but the priority is Lunin. It will depend a lot on how the Ukrainian values the Atleti project and if he prefers it over other proposals from abroad.
Madrid Decides
At Bernabéu, there are no nerves; the situation is under control. They appreciate Lunin and want to keep him, but if he finally leaves, the club wants to have the last word on his destination. Real Madrid doesn't want to strengthen Atleti, although they are already aware of their interest despite no formal offer.
For now, Lunin has also received attention from Premier League clubs and other European leagues, which adds pressure to Madrid and options for the player. Neither Manchester City nor PSG seem to be his destinations. The surprise is that the Ukrainian goalkeeper could cross the street in Madrid.
A Bold Move
If his signing for Atlético de Madrid is finally confirmed, Lunin will not only change clubs. He will take a huge step in his career. He will bet on being a protagonist in a big team, but at the cost of becoming an "enemy" of what was his home.
Time will tell if the decision was the right one. What is clear is that Lunin doesn't want to keep waiting. Atleti could be the big beneficiary.