Nobody wants to see Real Madrid sell valuable players who are either currently among the world’s best or could develop into one of the world’s best in a few years. But that’s exactly what could happen in 2021 due to the difficult economic situation and Florentino Perez’s continued pursuit of PSG superstar Kylian Mbappe.
Last summer, we saw Real flip two of the world’s most promising young fullbacks in Achraf Hakimi and Sergio Reguilon. Could we see even bigger moves made in the 2021 summer transfer window? The likes of Isco, Alvaro Odriozola, and Luka Jovic are among the expected candidates to receive a transfer, but here are three bigger names who could be sold this year.
CB Raphael Varane
We begin with superstar center back Raphael Varane. After some struggles to start the 2020-2021 season, Varane has resumed being one of the league’s best defenders. He was the hero at the double against Huesca, and he’s quietly been a stronger leader than ever before, which has been crucial with Sergio Ramos out injured more frequently this season.
But Varane has one year left on his deal after the 2020-2021 season ends. MARCA’s Carlos Carpio has already reported that Real Madrid are ready to sell the French standout this summer if he does not renew, since they do not want to risk losing such a valuable player for free.
Last year at this time, it was impossible to envision Varane being transferred. But with Sergio Ramos’ future uncertain and the clock ticking down on Varane’s contract in this economic crisis, all options are on the table.
Losing Ramos would hurt. But losing both Varane and Ramos in 2021? I shudder to think how Real would replace them, especially since preferred target Jules Kounde would likely cost the full 80 million euro release clause.