Carlo Ancelotti’s Real Madrid are reportedly all set to battle it out with Tottenham for the signature of 23-year-old Real Betis midfielder Johnny Cardoso.
Johnny Cardoso could be on the move in the next summer transfer window. Multiple top clubs from across Europe are after his signature. According to Diario de Sevilla via Sport Witness, Tottenham Hotspur are the club that are most interested in the American international. But, they could face significant competition from Real Madrid.
Cardoso came up the ranks at Internacional and made a name for himself while playing for their first team before making the move to Real Betis at the start of 2024. While he did find it difficult to get going, the American midfielder has managed to establish himself as a key figure in the team this season.
He has been involved in 19 matches and has racked up over 1,200 minutes. While the majority of his appearances have come in a defensive role, the 23-year-old has also played in an advanced role when needed. His performances in La Liga and the UEFA Europa Conference have attracted a significant amount of interest.
Spurs keen on Cardoso, Real Madrid to rival them
Johnny Cardoso’s contract at Betis runs until the summer of 2029, but there are high chances of him being on the move in 2025. Tottenham are the ones who hold concrete interest in the young defensive midfield. The North London club parted ways with quite a few of their midfield stars in the summer, and they seek more quality as well as depth.
Spurs already had their eyes on Cardoso during the summer and managed to reach an interesting agreement with Betis for a future transfer. While negotiating Giovani Lo Celso’s departure to Manuel Pellegrini’s side, they secured an option to buy the American international as a part of that deal.
Now, Tottenham will have an option to buy him for €30 million. But, if an interested club tables a better offer, Spurs will have to match that. While Ange Postecoglou’s team are the most interested club, they could face serious competition from Real Madrid.
Los Blancos have been keeping a close eye on the 23-year-old’s performances. With Luka Modric expected to be on the move next summer, they will need more depth in the centre of the park, and Cardoso could help their cause. With Betis in need to raise at least €20 million by June 30th to balance their books, there is a high possibility of the former Internacional star being on the move.
