After losing Toni Kroos to retirement at the end of last season, Real Madrid has struggled to fill the vacuum left by the German legend in their lineup. With Luka Modric’s contract expiring at the end of the season and his future uncertain, Los Blancos are keeping an eye on the transfer market for midfield reinforcements this summer.
Real Madrid is interested in Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi, but all indications are that the midfielder will join Arsenal this summer. As a result, the Spanish capital club is looking for alternatives.
To that end, BILD reports that Real Madrid still have Joshua Kimmich of Bayern Munich as an option to replace Toni Kroos in the squad. The 29-year-old German international is out of contract with the Bavarians at the end of the season and is yet to sign a new deal despite prolonged negotiations.
Who will replace Toni Kroos? (Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images).) Kimmich’s top objective is supposed to be renewing his contract with Bayern, and he recently spoke with club administrators but informed them that he has yet to make a choice.
However, Bundesliga executives are becoming increasingly unhappy with Kimmich’s decision-making delays, which could pave the way for an exit.
As per the report, Real Madrid are one of many suitors for Kimmich, with Los Blancos viewing him as an option to replace Kroos.However, they are set to face competition from Manchester City, where he would reunite with former mentor Pep Guardiola.
Meanwhile, PSG, who were close to signing the German international last summer for an affordable fee, also remain interested.Barcelona, too, were credited with interest in Kimmich but the report suggests that they have backed out due to the player’s wage demands.
It now remains to be seen whether Real Madrid act on their reported interest in the German international or explore alternative routes.