This summer’s transfer window was expected to be a stellar one for Real Madrid, with both Kylian Mbappe and Erling Haaland linked with a move to the Spanish capital.
Mbappe was persuaded to stay in Paris, however, while Haaland eventually completed a big money move to Manchester City. As a result, Madrid’s summer business has been surprisingly modest, with only one signing made for a fee when Aurelien Tchouameni joined from Monaco in an €80 million deal.
Of course, Antonio Rudiger also signed on a free transfer from Chelsea, but there remains a sense that Madrid will do more business before the pre-season draws to a close. This is certainly true if Madrid are to retain their UCL crown, with Los Blancos fourth favourites to prevail in 2022/23 (you can use NEWBONUS for a GG poker promo code to check out this and alternative markets).
But which players are being linked with Los Blancos? Here are some of the latest transfer rumours!
#1. Timo Werner, Chelsea
This may seem a little out of left field, but Marca has reported that Real Madrid have been offered Chelsea’s out-of-favour forward Timo Werner for a fee of around €30 million.
What’s more, it has also been suggested that Madrid are interested, as manager Carlo Ancelotti looks to bolster his attacking options and commission the sale of misfiring Belgian winger Eden Hazard.
Certainly, Werner was a constant thorn in Madrid’s side in the second leg of the Champions League quarter final last season, as Chelsea’s side threatened to overturn a 3-1 first leg deficit. Not only did Werner Chelsea’s third goal on the night, but his constant movement and searing pace left Madrid’s defence all at sea.
Werner would also add squad depth and cover for both Vinicius Junior and Karim Benzema, so this is a move that could have legs after all.
#2. Fabian Ruiz, Napoli
Napoli’s Brazilian midfielder Fabian Ruiz is another that has been linked to Los Blancos, although some are suggesting that this move could happen in 2023 (when the technically gifted ball player could be available for free).
However, Madrid’s hand may be forced by Arsenal, with the Gunners also interested in signing Ruiz from Napoli. This could compel Madrid to make a move, so long as they’re willing to pay a fee for the versatile midfielder who can play in both a defensive and attacking central position.
Of course, some have questioned the validity of this rumour, especially with Madrid well stocked in midfield having previously added Tchouameni and Eduardo Camavinga to their squad.
However, Madrid do need depth in their central midfield positions, especially with the futures of both Luka Modric and Toni Kroos unclear.
#3. Armando Broja, Chelsea
We close with Armando Broja, with the powerful and technically excellent striker having recently returned to Chelsea after a relatively fruitful loan spell at Southampton in 2021/22.
Like Werner, Broja is being considered as backup to the starting forward line, although he would exclusively provide cover to the excellent Benzema in the centre forward position.
The move would likely appeal to Broja, although the young forward could benefit from more first-team opportunities at Stamford Bridge in 2022/23 following the loan departure of record signing Romelu Lukaku.
This will be an interesting space to watch, but we’d expect Madrid to sign at least one additional striker ahead of the new season.
