La Liga heavyweights Real Madrid have reportedly initiated contact with Everton forward Richarlison, a summer target for Manchester United.
According to a report by Spanish publication SPORT, Real Madrid and Manchester United could wage a transfer battle for Richarlison in the summer transfer window. The Merengues have sounded out the Everton forward’s entourage, with Carlo Ancelotti keen on reuniting with him.
Richarlison has been one of the most enterprising attackers in the Premier League since arriving in England nearly half a decade ago. The Brazilian international has stepped his game up several notches following his transfer to Everton from Watford in July 2018, having become a key figure immediately for the Toffees.
But injuries and poor form have hampered the ongoing campaign for the 24-year-old, who has a paltry tally of five goals and two assists in 23 appearances across all competitions. That has not done anything to detract his potential suitors, with Real Madrid and Manchester United keen on signing him in the summer transfer window.
Real Madrid had shown an interest in Richarlison last summer after Carlo Ancelotti swapped the Everton hot seat with the one at the Santiago Bernabeu. The Italian tactician has since been eager to reunite with the Brazilian forward. While the Merengues are poised to sign Kylian Mbappe on a Bosman move, there could be room for another attacking addition.
Eden Hazard faces an uncertain future at Real Madrid amid links with Arsenal and Newcastle United. Richarlison could thus be a viable option to replace the struggling Belgian forward in the summer. But Real Madrid will need to fend off stiff competition from Manchester United to land the Everton attacker.
The interest from Manchester United stems from the uncertainties surrounding the futures of several attacking players. Edinson Cavani will leave Manchester United as a free agent, while the Red Devils will likely sell Anthony Martial in the summer. Cristiano Ronaldo could also depart Old Trafford if the Premier League bigwigs do not qualify for the UEFA Champions League.
According to SPORT, Real Madrid have approached Richarlison’s camp, while recent reports have suggested the Brazilian and Manchester United have already opened talks. The 24-year-old thus looks likely to leave Everton in the summer, with a big move on the cards.
