La Liga champions Real Madrid have reportedly kick-started the operation to sign 19-year-old Spanish midfield sensation Rodrigo Mendoza from Elche CF.
According to an update by Spanish journalist Jorge C Picon, Rodrigo Mendoza is the subject of interest from Real Madrid. The reigning La Liga champions are scouring the market for a versatile midfielder, with the Elche CF wonderkid emerging as a target. The Merengues have begun the talks to sign the Spanish midfield sensation, with Los Franjiverdes being tough negotiators.
Who is Rodrigo Mendoza?
Rodrigo Mendoza is the latest highly-rated prospect to rise in prominence in his homeland. A native of Murcia, the Spaniard has spent his formative years in his homeland, passing through the academies at four clubs and graduating from the youth division at Elche CF.
Mendoza broke into the first-team squad at Elche CF in the first few months of the 2022/23 season, making his senior bow in November 2022. Since then, the 19-year-old has gone from strength to strength, featuring regularly in the middle of the park. The youngster has turned out 15 times thus far this term, chipping in with two goals and two assists.
Meanwhile, the Spanish midfield prospect’s progress at Elche CF has not gone unnoticed, capturing the attention of several high-profile clubs across Europe. Real Madrid will pursue the player’s signature this year, with Los Blancos initiating the discussions with Los Franjiverdes to secure his services.
Real Madrid move on the horizon?
Real Madrid’s interest in Rodrigo Mendoza is understandable. The reigning La Liga champions are keen on signing at least one new midfielder, with Toni Kroos leaving a gaping hole in the midfield unit since calling time on his glittering career. In addition, Luka Modric is in the twilight of his career and is fast approaching retirement.
So, several candidates, including Archie Gray, have emerged on Real Madrid’s radar, with Mendoza also a viable target. The Merengues have already opened talks to sign the 19-year-old Spaniard from Elche. However, with Los Franjiverdes being tough negotiators, the discussions should not be short and efficient.
The opportunity to join Real Madrid should appeal to Mendoza, although he should also prioritise game time while taking his call. It will be interesting to see if the Spanish midfield sensation arrives at the Santiago Bernabeu this year.
