Real Madrid sits at the top of the La Liga table with 45 points, up on goal difference with Girona. Does Carlo Ancelotti need to make key signings this winter to ensure another La Liga title and Champions League run? Let’s take a look at who’s linked with Los Blancos this January.
Kylian Mbappe, Paris Saint-Germain
Imagine how much money you could earn when someone linked Kylian Mbappe to a move to Real Madrid. The long-sought-after French forward has been a transfer desire since the days of manager Zinedine Zidane. Zizou left Madrid for a second time in 2021.
After a brief moment in which Real Madrid dismissed interest in the 25-year-old Mbappe late last year, Florentino Pérez is re-interested in landing the star man. And Perez wants a fresh move to nail the deal down this winter window. Mbappe’s PSG contract winds down this summer, making him accessible to talk to new suitors.
According to reports, Madrid is preparing a colossal offer for the future Galactico. The deal includes a $29 million salary and a $143 million signing bonus. Of course, head coach Carlo Ancelotti, who just extended his contract with Santiago Bernabeu for another two years, refused to comment on the Mbappe matter. “I won’t touch that subject,” he said.
Madrid is giving Mbappe until mid-January to make a decision. The striker is also heavily linked with Klopp’s Liverpool.
Ancelotti also mentioned that the club is unlikely to be active this winter, given their dependable young talents. But let’s explore who else could be on Madrid’s radar.
Leny Yoro, Lille
With starters David Alaba and Eder Militao out of the squad due to injury, Real Madrid could still be in the hunt to land a dependable backup while investing in their future.
18-year-old center-back Leny Yoro comes to mind. Real Madrid wants to emulate their success with Raphael Varane, whom they also brought in as a teenager.
The French starlet won’t come cheap as Lille is holding out for at least €50m. “There are many interesting players around, but in January it’s very difficult to find cheap opportunities,” said transfer expert Fabrizio Romano.
“I personally love Lille’s impressive young centre-back Leny Yoro – he’s a top talent, but expensive.”
Giorgio Scalvini, Atalanta
We’re in the middle of the season, and while Real Madrid looks strong on all fronts, they will still invest in their future. And for that reason, Atalanta center-back Giorgio Scalvini comes to mind. The 21-year-old is deep in demand, with a €50m release clause.
Manchester United, City, Atletico Madrid, and Dortmund have the wonderkid on their winter transfer list.
Alphonso Davies, Bayern Munich
Meep, meep! A transfer for Alphonso Davies may not be attainable this winter, but Real Madrid is carefully knocking on Bayern Munich’s door.
The left-back is fond of Real Madrid, who’ll have to fork over €50m plus add-ons to get the Canadian star. A deal will most likely transpire this summer.
Erling Haaland, Manchester City
Yes, we know. But Florentino Perez wants Mbappe and Erling Haaland at the renovated Santiago Bernabéu. And he’s planting the seeds this winter, knowing that Haaland is a big fan of Los Blancos.
Is Halaand Real Madrid’s plan B should Mbappe diss Madrid again by January 15? Yes, and it may work out better. It did for Jude Bellingham, Haaland’s former teammate, too.
Photo: Tw/Fabrizioromano
