Real Madrid looking at making move for former Barcelona midfielder Thiago Alcantara – Reports

Real Madrid manager Julen Lopetegui has been pretty calm in the last few weeks after taking over. Many perceive the situation bordering on becoming calamitous as Cristiano Ronaldo’s departure and now the rumours surrounding Luka Modric’s future have made the fans pretty nervous.

Real Madrid didn’t get to where they are by just playing dumb in the market, however. If Modric does depart, the club will do everything to get their hands on Bayern Munich midfielder Thiago Alcantara according to AS.

It does sound a bit far-fetched as Thiago represented Barcelona a few seasons ago before he moved to Bayern whilst Pep Guardiola was in charge. AS, however claim that despite extending his contract with the Bavarians, he is open to a move back to Spain.

Real Madrid is the likeliest destination right not just because Modric is unsettled but also because Barcelona recently signed Arturo Vidal. The Blaugrana themselves have been linked with a move for Paul Pogba but it’s unlikely the Frenchman will move as the Premier League transfer window closes tomorrow.

Julen Lopetegui does have a few midfield options up his sleeve but Thiago’s addition would make it easier for him to implement his style. The manager already has Isco and Thiago’s potential arrival will make it two midfielders with whom he worked during his spell in charge of the Spanish national team.

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Considering Thiago is contracted with Bayern until 2021, he is likely to cost a bit of money. It’s likely to take a fee of at least €60 million to convince Bayern into selling the midfielder. James Rodriguez could potentially play a key role in the transfer, though.

Rodriguez is in his final year of the two-year loan spell at Bayern and if the Bavarians want to sign him permanently, Madrid could try and tempt them into selling Thiago in a swap deal.