Real Madrid are reportedly set to pursue a late move to land Barcelona academy graduate Thiago Alcantara from Bayern Munich.
According to a report by Spanish publication Don Balon, Real Madrid are eager to continue bolstering their squad before the summer transfer window slams shut on Friday. Los Blancos are ready to launch the offensive for former Barcelona superstar Thiago Alcantara, who is open to a move to the Bernabeu.
Thiago has created a solid reputation of being one of the best creative midfielders in Europe since joining Bayern Munich from Barcelona in the summer of 2013. But, after five stellar campaigns at the Allianz Arena, his future has become uncertain, with widespread reports suggesting a move back to Spain could be on the cards.
That the player is reportedly ready to move back to a top La Liga side only adds further weight to the speculation. The obvious choices are Real Madrid and Barcelona, but the Blaugrana seem to have bowed out of the race to sign Thiago. The European champions now remain the leaders in his pursuit.
Real Madrid have been in hot pursuit of the 27-year-old for a while now, with Julen Lopetegui a huge admirer of his talents. The Basque coach is reportedly looking for a long-term successor to Luka Modric, who also faces an uncertain future at the Bernabeu.
The Croat is unlikely to leave this summer. But, the veteran midfielder is in the twilight of his career, and finding a long-term replacement is imperative for Lopetegui. The former Barcelona superstar, with his abilities, could be just what the doctor order for Real Madrid.
Los Blancos seem to be going into a recruitment overdrive in the final stage of the summer transfer window. Mariano Diaz has gone on to rejoin Real Madrid this week, and Thiago might just be the next player to arrive at the Bernabeu ahead of the August 31 deadline.
Florentino Perez now appears to be ready to sanction a move for the former Barcelona superstar as well, having initially been hesitant to sign him. The real bone of contention though, will be the €60 million asking price, with the report not suggesting whether Real Madrid are willing to shell out the amount.
What does appear certain is that the next couple of days will see some frantic action at Real Madrid. Thiago could well be the next player to arrive at the Bernabeu, albeit not to return to Barcelona but their bitter rivals.
