Real Madrid have reportedly established contact with Colombian international Juan Quintero and are scouring the prospect of a summer move for the FC Porto man.
Spanish publication AS are speculating that Real Madrid are interested in another Colombian and have taken the first steps towards bringing the player over to the Bernabeu in the summer. Juan Quintero, who is currently on loan from FC Porto at River Plate, has emerged as an option for Los Blancos.
Real Madrid are renowned to look for breakout stars at the World Cup. Colombia’s 2014 run saw Los Blancos snap up James Rodriguez, who was the star of the 2014 edition. Keylor Navas followed suit and while both of them have been scrutinised a bit, they have enjoyed successful careers at the Bernabeu.
Juan Quintero seems to be the James Rodriguez of the 2018 edition. With the latter not fit to start the first game, it was Quintero who gave Colombia the lead with a cleverly executed direct free-kick. And when the FC Porto man shared the stage with the Real Madrid star in the second match, he was as influential in the final third, if not more.
His breakout performances have attracted the interest of Real Madrid, who look like they are in for a heavy midfield shakeup in the summer. Mateo Kovacic is linked with a move away from the club and Los Blancos are considering the possibility of Quintero coming in to replace the outbound Croat.
Quintero has displayed an all-round performance thus far, which makes Real Madrid believe he will excel in a slightly withdrawn role as well. Even if not, Quintero could even prove to be a contingency for Marco Asensio, who has been the subject of interest and even a bid from Liverpool.
The 25-year-old has been a journeyman so far in his club career. But, his performance at the biggest stage in Russia could unlock the doors for a blockbuster move to one of the biggest clubs in footballing history.
There are no updates as to what FC Porto might ask for Quintero, with his River Plate loan spell set to run out in six months. The Argentinian club reserve the right to sign the player on a permanent deal during the loan. But, the player is sure to be interested in hearing about a move to Real Madrid.
James Rodriguez and Juan Quintero have gone a long way together, from childhood friends to guiding Los Cafeteros in the World Cup. pic.twitter.com/Q3rAGMvVuF
— Seleção Brasileira (@BrazilStat) June 25, 2018
Quintero has proven his ability be a star, to be the difference on the pitch; that too at the biggest stage of them all. Looks like he might soon be heading towards a career trajectory quite similar to his compatriot, James Rodriguez.
