The summer transfer window always provides plenty of surprises, and Real Madrid often find themselves in the middle of the action. But instead of only looking to add talent, Los Blancos appear set to move on from Cristiano Ronaldo in 2018.
Recent reports have the Portuguese superstar set to sign with Italian powerhouse Juventus, with a fee rumoured to be in the region of €100 million. A four-year contract worth €30 million per season is a part of the deal as well, according to Goal.
The transfer would represent a massive shift in power for Europe, also bringing an end to a tremendously successful chapter of Ronaldo’s career in Spain. The 33-year-old has captured four Champions League crowns since joining Madrid in 2009, along with two La Liga titles and two Copa del Reys.
In terms of individual brilliance, Ronaldo’s four Ballon d’Or awards speak volumes about his overall impact in the Spanish capital. There has been talks of his departure before, even as recently as last year. However, now Real Madrid seem poised to actually make the change happen.
Juventus’ interest for CR7 makes sense in some ways, as the Bianconeri have found nothing but frustration in European campaigns. Despite seven consecutive Serie A triumphs, they have been unable to find continental success since 1996. Quite simply, Juventus have the Champions League in their sights.
From that perspective, Ronaldo’s history in club football’s most prestigious competition could turn out to be the correct decision. In the other direction, Real Madrid must now find a way to replace his incredible production on the pitch.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e2v4tRajLmU
Never shy to spend in the transfer market, Ronaldo’s potential fee from Juventus adds even more resources to their financial abilities to sign talent. Club president Florentino Perez is someone who wants the world’s best playing at the Estadio Santiago Bernabéu, and one can’t help but think the international stage will once again influence him.
2018 FIFA World Cup
As the World Cup in Russia concludes, two players that have grabbed serious attention could be making their way to Real Madrid this summer. Talks of Neymar joining Los Merengues have been heard for months, while interest in France’s Kylian Mbappe has also been circulated. The club even went as far as to deny a contract was in place, and this may simply be a negotiation tactic from Perez.
The 2014 World Cup saw Madrid’s president go after the tournament’s top performers when the Spanish giants signed Colombia’s James Rodriguez and Costa Rican goalkeeper Keylor Navas. Perez is forever in pursuit of the club’s next set of “Galacticos”, and either Neymar or Mbappe would fit that description quite well.
In terms of the line-up, both players would be able to fill the role that Ronaldo leaves behind. Wide forwards with incredible skill on the ball and possessing electric pace, they can be the type of addition that keeps success in place for new manager Julen Lopetegui. Gareth Bale may be leaving the squad also this summer.
Real Madrid are prepared to enter a brave new world. If Cristiano Ronaldo does wave goodbye, you can guarantee that Florentino Perez will have an expensive new plan ready for all to see.
