Real Madrid could enter the market to replace exit-linked midfield star – report | OneFootball

In a major development, Rodra of ESPN reports that Real Madrid are considering the possibility of signing a midfielder in the final days of the transfer window if Dani Ceballos is transferred to Olympique de Marseille.

Ceballos, who does not feature in manager Xabi Alonso’s plans for the season, has dropped hints about a possible exit before the transfer window closes.

While a move to his former club, Real Betis, had been speculated for much of the summer, Marseille have now emerged as a likely destination for the midfielder.

Replacement for Ceballos before letting him go

However, according to the report, Real Madrid manager Alonso does not want to lose a player without having a replacement lined up.

The Merengues and Marseille are already negotiating a transfer or a loan with an obligation to buy for Ceballos.

The two operations are interlinked, though, and both described as complicated, because there are few profiles in the market that fit what Real Madrid are looking for, and because the club are demanding at least €15 million to approve Ceballos’ departure.

Reinforcements needed

Set to depart. (Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images)

Real Madrid have spent more than €170 million this summer on the signings of Dean Huijsen, Trent Alexander-Arnold, Alvaro Carreras, and Franco Mastantuono.

However, no new midfielder has arrived, despite Luka Modric leaving for AC Milan on a free transfer.

Earlier in the summer, Real Madrid considered re-signing Nico Paz, but ultimately decided to let him continue his development at Como for another season.

But with the likelihood of Ceballos’ departure also increasing, Real Madrid are considering a final push in the transfer window and are now scanning the market for midfielders.

Real Madrid are also evaluating academy midfielder Thiago Pitarch as an option for a potential promotion to the first team.

The youngster earned a contract renewal after an impressive pre-season, but the club still want a more experienced option to ensure squad depth for the campaign. As such, it is not ruled out that a late signing is made.