According to Daily Star, Real Madrid were given the opportunity to sign Neymar for a fee of €120 million plus Isco. However, the former European champions have rejected Paris Saint-Germain’s proposal and are happy to keep hold of their playmaker. As a result, their negotiations with the French outfit in regards to the transfer of Neymar looks to have stalled for the time being. But, is it the right choice by Los Blancos?
Isco’s struggles last season
Isco has proved himself to be a remarkable signing for Real Madrid after joining the club for a fee of €30 million back in 2013. During his ongoing six-year spell at the club, the Spaniard has notched up 277 competitive appearances, during which he has been involved in 100 goals.
However, the playmaker has endured a difficult time at the Bernabeu following the departure of Zinedine Zidane at the end of the 2017/18 campaign. Last season, Isco mustered just under 1,200 minutes of league football, which is unacceptable for a player of his calibre. He also scored only three goals and provided one assist, notably falling out with the previous manager Santiago Solari.
Isco’s fortunes could change
Being involved in just four goals in 27 league games is reason enough for Real Madrid to offload players. But, in the case of Isco, things could be different. The Spaniard has already shown what he is capable and with Zidane also back in charge, a change of fortunes could be on the cards for Isco.
With Real Madrid struggling to meet Manchester United’s hefty valuation for Paul Pogba, Isco’s presence in the team could be useful, especially in that extra midfield slot of a 4-3-3. The 27-year-old’s ability to carry the ball across half-spaces coupled with his excellent vision could be invaluable for a new-look Real Madrid that will require support.
How important Neymar’s signing is compared to Isco?
The potential addition of Neymar to Real Madrid will surely revamp the club’s attacking department that already boasts the services of players like Eden Hazard, Luka Jovic, Vinicius Junior and Marco Asensio, among many others.
The Brazilian ace can partner up with Hazard on the flanks, with either Karim Benzema or Jovic leading the attack. But, at the same time, the offensive combination will be useless when there is no support in midfield. And that’s where Isco comes into the fray.
With Luka Modric nearing the end of his career, the Spaniard can take on the initiative of becoming Real Madrid’s provider in chief. He is not as injury prone as Neymar either. Hence, Los Blancos took the right option not to offload Isco this summer.
