Real Madrid’s Decision to Skip a Replacement for Toni Kroos
Real Madrid faced a significant decision after Toni Kroos announced his retirement in May of last year. Initially, the club opted against signing a direct replacement, confident in the burgeoning talent of players like Fede Valverde, Eduardo Camavinga, Jude Bellingham, and Aurelien Tchouameni. These young stars, each with a unique blend of skills and potential, were seen as the future of the midfield, capable of filling the void left by Kroos. However, the early struggles of the 2024-2025 season may have shaken the club’s initial resolve. Despite the promising young talent, the midfield has not always performed to the club’s high standards, leading to speculation and a reevaluation of their strategy.
The Joshua Kimmich Option
One of the most prominently mentioned options to bolster the midfield was Bayern Munich’s Joshua Kimmich. The 29-year-old German international, whose contract expires in the summer, seemed a perfect fit to replace Kroos. Known for his exceptional ball control and distribution, Kimmich has already stepped into Kroos’s shoes for Germany and has a track record of success at Bayern. The potential to sign him on a pre-contract, a common approach for Real Madrid when targeting more seasoned players, added to the allure of this move. Kimmich’s suitability and availability made him a top contender, and the club’s interest was evident in the early discussions.
The Contract Saga and BILD’s Report
However, recent developments have shifted the landscape. Tobi Altschaffl of BILD, a respected German football journalist, reported that Real Madrid has now ruled out a move for Kimmich. According to Altschaffl, Kimmich is in very advanced negotiations with Bayern Munich over a new contract. Both parties are committed to finalizing the deal, with the only remaining issue being the financial terms. Bayern’s offer is on the table, and the talks are progressing smoothly. This news comes as a blow to Real Madrid fans who had hoped for the addition of a seasoned and versatile midfielder to the squad.
Barcelona’s Interest and the Emergence of Marc Casado
While Real Madrid’s interest in Kimmich appears to be cooling, it’s worth noting that Barcelona had also been linked with the midfielder last summer. However, the rise of young talent like Marc Casado within the Catalan club seems to have dampened their enthusiasm for signing Kimmich. Casado, a promising midfielder, has shown great promise and could be seen as a long-term solution for Barcelona, much like how Real Madrid is banking on their young stars. This shift in focus by Barcelona has likely influenced the overall market dynamics and reduced the competition for Kimmich’s signature.
Other Potential Targets and Strategic Considerations
Real Madrid has not been idle in their search for midfield reinforcements. The club has been heavily linked with Martin Zubimendi, a player who has caught the eye of many Premier League clubs as well. Zubimendi, known for his intelligence and technical skills, could be a more cost-effective and long-term solution compared to Kimmich. Additionally, Atalanta’s Ederson has also been mentioned as a potential target. Ederson’s performances in Serie A have been impressive, and he offers a different profile that could complement the existing squad. The emergence of Dani Ceballos, who has been in fine form, especially in high-profile matches like the recent encounter against Manchester City, could further persuade Real Madrid to maintain faith in their current resources.
Financial Prudence and Future Prospects
President Florentino Perez’s cautious approach to spending has also played a significant role in the club’s decision-making process. Perez, known for his strategic and sometimes conservative financial policies, has been particularly guarded against major expenditures in recent years. The excellent display by Ceballos against Manchester City has likely bolstered Perez’s confidence in the existing talent within the club. This performance, along with the potential of the younger midfielders, might convince the club to prioritize developing their current squad over signing a veteran player like Kimmich. As Real Madrid continues to navigate the complex world of football transfers, they will undoubtedly keep a close eye on the progress of their young stars and the evolving needs of the team.
