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As one of the powers of world football, it’s safe to say that the 2018/19 season has been a disaster for Real Madrid. Whilst the loss of Cristiano Ronaldo was a huge blow, many fans and pundits alike expected them to still compete on all fronts.
Unfortunately for Madrid fans, that just hasn’t been the case this season. They currently find themselves in 3rd place in La Liga, 12 points behind arch-rivals Barcelona.
Their Champions League campaign was also a disaster as they conceded 4 goals at home to Ajax to bow out in the Round of 16. To round out this poor trifecta, they also suffered a 4-1 aggregate defeat to Barcelona in the Copa Del Rey.
With Former Manager Zinedine Zidane back in the fold, Real Madrid are expected to be huge spenders in the Summer Transfer window. They are particularly in the market for a strong forward to help replace some of Ronaldo’s production. Without further ado, let’s look at 5 players who Madrid could bring in this Summer.
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#1 Eden Hazard
After years of speculation, an Eden hazard transfer to Real Madrid looks imminent. Chelsea reportedly want 100 million Euros for their star man, whilst Madrid are said to have bid as much as 82 million.
On paper, Hazard would be an excellent fit for a Madrid squad lacking offensive production up front. Karim Benzema has continued to underwhelm as the #9, whilst Gareth Bale has had yet another disappointing season.
Ever since arriving at Stamford Bridge in 2012, Hazard has been among the league’s premier forwards. He has scored double-digit league goals in 5 of his last 6 campaigns and is regularly among the Premier League assist leaders.
Given their recent form of late, Chelsea also look in real danger of missing the Champions League again next season. Should that occur, I think Hazard is very likely to be on his way to the Bernabeu.
#2 Sadio Mane
Whilst Liverpool fans won’t want to see this, Sadio Mane’s recent form has started attracting a lot of rival attention. He is having far and away the best season of his career, already banging in 17 EPL goals this campaign.
After joining from Southampton in 2016, Mane has had 3 very solid campaigns and could definitely be ready for a new challenge. His elite quickness and dribbling ability have made him an absolute nightmare to deal with for opposing Fullbacks. Forming an excellent trio with Roberto Firmino and Mo Salah, Mane has been a huge reason behind Liverpool's success this season.
Turning 27 years old next month, this also may well be his last chance at a big money move. Should Real Madrid fail to land either Hazard or Icardi this summer, Mane is a very logical and realistic alternative.
#3 Lucas Hernandez
Whilst a lot of Madrid’s problems have come on the offensive end this season, the defense has been far from perfect. Ramos and Varane appear likely to continue at the Centre Back duo, but the Fullback position remains in flux.
Part of the winning 2018 French World Cup squad, Hernandez has received a lot of interest from top teams this season. He has great versatility at the back, having represented both his country and club side Athletico Madrid as both a Left Back and Centre Back.
With incumbent starter Marcelo linked with a move to Juventus this Summer, Hernandez could slot in as a natural replacement. That said, the fact that he plays for rival Athletico Madrid could complicate a potential transfer. One thing’s for sure though, he would definitely be a valuable player as Real look to retool.
#4 Mauro Icardi
Another player set to be on Real Madrid’s radar is Inter Milan striker Mauro Icardi. Since signing for Inter in 2013, the Argentinian has been one of the league’s most lethal strikers.
He has banged in the goals for fun, eclipsing 22 goals in the 2015, 2017, and 2018 seasons. After reportedly falling out with coaches and teammates, Icardi is very likely to be on the transfer block this summer.
Given Karim Benzema’s decline of late, Icardi could seamlessly slot in as Madrid’s #9. His mix of footwork, speed, and power could prove lethal against some of La Liga’s weak defences.
Having just turned 26 years old, I think Icardi is ready for this move and would welcome the challenge of going to Madrid. He could provide a noticeable spark to a lackluster forward line and enjoy being coached by one of the wor
#5 Neymar
As perhaps the crown jewel of these 5 players, Neymar would be a huge potential add for Real Madrid this Summer. The Brazilian star is said to be unhappy at PSG, particularly after an embarrassing Champions League loss to Man United.
He has extensive experience in La Liga, having had 4 successful seasons at rival Barcelona previously. His goal scoring was simply incredible in 2014-15 and 2015-16 as he scored a combined 70 goals in the league, domestic cups, and Champions League.
Known for his excellent dribbling and scoring ability, Neymar is perhaps the most capable man of filling Ronaldo’s shoes. Having moved to PSG for a world record fee just two seasons ago, a move at this early stage may not be feasible. That said, money talks and Madrid will definitely have the cash to throw around this Summer.
