As reported by AS, a source close to Neymar’s family claims Real Madrid are not willing to match PSG’s hefty valuation for the Brazilian international. It is reported that Los Blancos are in transfer battle with Barcelona and Juventus in the pursuit of the unsettled PSG winger.
Therefore, it won’t be surprising to see the former European champions miss out on Neymar. And in this article, we will figure out three potential alternatives they could pursue before the European transfer window ends on 2nd September.
Kai Havertz
Bayer Leverkusen star Kai Havertz is currently one of the hottest prospects in world football. The 20-year-old has been a first-team regular for Die Werkself ever since making his breakthrough during the 2016/17 season. Last season, however, the youngster performed at a whole new level, scoring 17 goals and providing four assists.
An attacking midfielder by trade, Havertz could easily be slotted into the extra midfield slot in Zinedine Zidane’s 4-3-3 formation. His favoured number ten role will not create a conflict with the likes of Eden Hazard or any other winger either, thus offering Zidane tactical flexibility.
But most importantly, at the age of just 20, Havertz could be an excellent long-term investment for Los Merengues.
Donny van de Beek
Donny van de Beek is arguably the most exciting option on this list and the easiest target as well, with the player notably confirming talks with Real Madrid earlier this month.
The Ajax number ten has impressed the onlookers with his productivity in the final third, scoring nine goals and providing ten assists last season. He started this season on a positive note as well, having been involved in five goals in three matches.
Van de Beek could provide a lot of versatility as well, as he can operate as a central and even as a wide midfielder. It is believed that the Dutchman could cost around €60 million, which is relatively reasonable for a player of his calibre.
Raphael Guerreiro
Reigniting interest in Raphael Guerreiro might not be a bad idea from Real Madrid’s perspective. The Spanish giants were linked with a move for the Borussia Dortmund star last summer. And the Portuguese international is currently facing an uncertain future at Dortmund, despite the club’s initial wish to extend his contract.
Guerreiro is by far the most versatile player on this list. He is a left-sided midfielder but can also feature as a left-back as well as a number ten and even as a number eight. The 25-year-old is primarily known for his tenacity and technical prowess that allows him to rotate possession at a quick-rate. He is also adept in breaking down opposing defences with quick one-twos.
Guerreiro is a shrewd choice for Real Madrid, but it’s a risk Zidane could fancy taking – given the sheer quality of the individual.
