Raul Jimenez, who is a target for Manchester United, has discussed the possibility of joining Barcelona and Real Madrid, among other clubs.
As quoted by Daily Express, Raul Jimenez has talked up the prospect of joining either Barcelona or Real Madrid, two clubs he has admitted will be hard to turn down. The Mexican international is the subject of interest from Manchester United over a move in the summer transfer window.
Raul Jimenez has been part of the Jorge Mendes revolution at Wolves, which has seen the club undergo a drastic transformation. From being mired in the promotion dogfight season after season while in the Championship to becoming European football contenders, it has been a spectacular 180 degree turnaround; and Jimenez has been a big part of that.
Nearing 100 appearances for Wolves, Jimenez has a solid tally of 39 goals and 18 assists, perfectly embodying the kind of football Nuno Espirito Santo wishes to play. His progress has ended up making the 28-year-old a target for Manchester United. However, Barcelona or Real Madrid could hold the advantage over United in pursuit of the Mexican striker.
“I find out [about the links with other clubs] through social media. They have already put me at Real Madrid, Chelsea, Manchester United, Arsenal and every day comes out a new team that want [to sign] me. I have to be calm. If they are talking about me it is because I am doing things well; I would like to continue in England.”
“I am happy, adapted and I like the idea [of staying in the Premier League]. If you tell me that tomorrow an offer from Real Madrid or Barcelona comes, it is obvious that you do not let such an opportunity go. But if I stay here I am fighting to qualify for the Champions League, for important things.”
Manchester United are in search of a striker who would primarily be a backup for Anthony Martial, but someone who can also provide healthy competition to the Frenchman. To that end, several strikers have been linked with the Red Devils, with a permanent deal for Odion Ighalo being touted as well.
As for Barcelona and Real Madrid, there has not been any concrete interest from either of the La Liga heavyweights. However, Jimenez could be a decent fit at either club. While Barcelona want a long-term successor for Luis Suarez, the struggles of Luka Jovic at the Bernabeu means Real Madrid have been looking for a striker as well.
Manchester United will be keen to beat the other suitors, but the comments by Jimenez clearly point towards Barcelona and Real Madrid being the favourites to sign him, should they make a move. What now remains to be seen is if Jimenez does leave Wolves this summer and if so, what his fee is, considering Wolves would be keen to recoup the £34.5 million they paid for him.
