Real Madrid will reportedly look to sign 31-year-old Brazilian goalkeeper Matheus from SC Braga if Kepa Arrizabalaga leaves next year.
According to a report by Spanish outlet Fichajes, Matheus is the subject of interest from Real Madrid. The Merengues are scouring the market for goalkeepers ahead of the 2024 summer transfer window. And they have set their sights on the 31-year-old SC Braga goalkeeper, who can replace Kepa Arrizabalaga next year.
Who is Matheus?
Matheus Lima Magalhaes, better known as Matheus, has been one of the best goalkeepers in the Primeira Liga since joining SC Braga from America-MG in July 2014. The Brazilian shot-stopper spent his formative years in his homeland but has spent most of his professional career in Portugal.
A mainstay between the sticks throughout his near-decade-long spell at SC Braga, the 31-year-old has turned out over 300 times for the club, keeping 101 clean sheets. Meanwhile, Matheus’s progress has not gone unnoticed, capturing the attention of one of the biggest clubs in the world — Real Madrid.
Real Madrid Calling?
Real Madrid will likely look to sign Kepa Arrizabalaga on a permanent deal in the 2024 summer transfer window. But a move for the Spanish international is not set in stone, with differences in valuations between Chelsea and Los Blancos likely to scupper the deal. So, it behoves Real Madrid to scour the market for goalkeepers.
Several shot-stoppers have thus emerged on Real Madrid’s radar, with the report mentioning Giorgi Mamardashvili and Randall Rodriguez. But Matheus also features on the club’s wishlist to replace Kepa next summer. The Brazilian goalkeeper will provide valuable experience to the Real Madrid dressing room.
But securing Matheus’s services in the 2024 summer transfer window might be complicated due to his contract situation. The 31-year-old signed a new deal with SC Braga last year, with the terms lasting until June 30, 2027. So, the Portuguese club’s position is ironclad, meaning Real Madrid might face an uphill task landing him.
Real Madrid took a closer look at Matheus during the two UEFA Champions League clashes with SC Braga. It will be interesting to see if the 31-year-old Brazilian goalkeeper becomes the top target to replace Kepa next year.
