The transfer market never sleeps and at Real Madrid, even less so. When it seemed that Xabi Alonso already had a closed and competitive squad in his hands, a new name emerges from England.
A young, strong striker, eager to prove himself. Yes, Madrid is moving to bring in a different "9".
Mbappé needs a partner, not a replacement
Since his arrival, Kylian Mbappé has become the center of attention, but it's also clear that he's not a classic striker. Xabi Alonso himself explained it: "He's not a box player. He moves all across the front line, but he's not a reference '9'."
That's why the white club is looking for a solution, not to replace him, but to complement him. Someone who can occupy the box when Mbappé plays more freely. A profile that doesn't seek the spotlight, but responds when draftedon.
The profile Xabi Alonso wants
The coach is clear: he wants a striker like Joselu, efficient, committed, and patient. Someone who doesn't need to start every week to perform. At Bernabéu, names like Dzeko, Füllkrug, or Budimir have been mentioned, but none fit completely, until now.
That's where the unexpected card appears: Rasmus Højlund. A Danish striker, tall, powerful, and with an interesting background. He plays at Manchester United, where he's had a tough season, but he's still very young and has plenty of room to improve.
Why Højlund?
At 23 years old, Rasmus Højlund has shown glimpses of what he can become. In the Premier League he didn't shine: just four goals in 32 matches. But in the Europa League it was a different story, he scored six goals and was one of the few who replied on important nights.
Moreover, his situation at United isn't stable. United doesn't see him as a starter and loaning him to Madrid benefits everyone: he plays, increases his value, and the club gains a hungry "9".
A logical signing
What Real Madrid is looking for isn't a headline signing, it's a functional piece. A player who doesn't compete with Mbappé, but gives him rest without the team suffering. With Højlund, Xabi Alonso could rotate without losing offensive threat.
In addition, the possible departure of Gonzalo García to another club in search of playing time opens the door even wider to this operation.
From the cold of Manchester to the warmth of Chamartín, Højlund could find in Madrid the perfect place to make his definitive leap. Without pressure, but with the opportunity to shine when most needed.
Because in this team, no one is an eternal substitute. Especially if you know how to score goals.