Real Madrid have been in hot pursuit of Paris Saint-Germain striker Kylian Mbappe for years, and having failed to land him so far, there are now plans in place for alternative targets.
Los Blancos will attempt to sign Mbappe again next summer, but after two years of uncertainty over his future, with the attacker rejecting Real Madrid at the last second a year ago, it is still unclear whether he will join the club.
If he does not, Real Madrid are now prepared to move onto different targets, with a forward now a priority. Karim Benzema’s departure has left them light up front, and a central striker will be needed next summer.
SPORT have now reported that Real Madrid could target Manchester City’s Julian Alvarez next summer if they decide to move on from Mbappe.
The 23-year-old was outstanding as Argentina won the World Cup last year, but with Erling Haaland the first choice under Pep Guardiola, Real Madrid believes that there is a chance they can land him.
The report claims that if City tie Haaland down on a long-term deal, whilst also potentially moving for Brighton striker Evan Ferguson, then Alvarez could become available, and he could be a good option for the Real Madrid attack.
Alvarez as a focal point
If it can be done, Alvarez perhaps makes even more sense than Mbappe in terms of formation.
Mbappe often prefers the left-hand side of the pitch, which is the same space Vinicius Junior tends to occupy.
Alvarez is comfortable as a central striker, and he can bring both goals and top-quality ability on the ball. At 23, he would fit into the young core growing at Real Madrid, and he could form a well-balanced front three with Vinicius and Rodrygo.
The World Cup winner could lead the line for Real Madrid with one of the best midfields in the world behind him, and he could flourish as the main man, rather than playing second-fiddle to Haaland.