Transfer Rumour: Barcelona and Real Madrid interested in Carlos Soler

Barcelona and Real Madrid are reportedly set to lock horns in pursuit of Valencia midfielder Carlos Soler next summer.

According to a report in Spanish publication Don Balon, Carlos Soler is attracting the attention of La Liga’s Royal Two. Barcelona and Real Madrid have set their sights on the Valencia midfielder, and the two clubs are set to go head-to-head in his pursuit next summer.

Soler joined the fabled academy at Valencia as an 8-year-old and rapidly progressed through the ranks at Mestalla before breaking into the first-team setup last season. Mere months after making his debut, the player has already cemented his place at the heart of midfield, establishing himself as a key figure for Los Che.

This season, Soler has been deployed as a winger by newly appointed Valencia boss, Marcelino and the 20-year-old has taken to his new role with aplomb, with his creativity shining through. In nine La Liga outings, the player has scored one goal while providing four assists, playing a pivotal role for his side as they currently sit second in the league.

His rapid progress has also helped Soler attract interest from some of the biggest clubs in the world. But, two suitors closer to home are hoping to add to their options by signing him, with Barcelona and Real Madrid vying for his signature.

At Barcelona, the form of Ivan Rakitic coupled with the struggles of Andre Gomes is a concern. With Andres Iniesta in the twilight years of his career, the need to sign a creative midfielder is urgent.

Soler’s ability to play on the wings also makes him a viable target, with little to choose from beyond Ousmane Dembele and Gerard Deulofeu. But, it is likely that the player is being eyed as a solution in midfield.

Real Madrid, on the other hand, could be eyeing Soler as a recruitment to solve some problems in attack due to Gareth Bale’s continued injury struggles. With the Welshman also being heavily linked with a departure from the Bernabeu, the Valencia midfielder is an ideal target for Los Blancos.

Neither club has made any contacts with Soler’s representatives thus far, but the Big Two are weighing up a move for him next summer. Should he continue his impressive development as the season progresses, it will not be a surprise to see both Barcelona and Real Madrid vying for his signature soon.