One area of the pitch where Real Madrid are light in at the moment is striker. Now, there is no doubt about the fact that Karim Benzema is incredible and is the hot favourite to win the Ballon d’Or this year. Despite being 34 years of age, he is showing no signs of slowing down. Instead, the Frenchman could actually be getting better with age and the previous campaign was his best ever.
He guided Real Madrid to the Champions League title and has taken his game to a whole different level ever since Cristiano Ronaldo has departed the club, taking his place as the main man seamlessly.
Beyond Benzema though, there is no real depth at striker in Carlo Ancelotti’s squad. Mariano Diaz is there but nowhere near the starting XI at the moment. The idea of playing Eden Hazard in a false nine role has been floated around, but who knows if the Belgian will be able to remain fit this season or not. And now, a young striker seems to be headed out of the club on loan.
As reported by Marca (via Get Spanish Football News), Juanmi Latasa is one step away from joining Rayo Vallecano, who have beaten off competition from Cadiz and Mallorca. It will be a loan deal and the youngster is looking for regular playing time.
Real Madrid youngster is close to joining La Liga rivals on loan in search of playing time
Latasa had a very promising season at the youth level for Real Madrid, but it is hard to see him getting into the first-team anytime soon.
Thus, moving away on loan in search of playing time and development might be the best for all parties involved in the deal.
It is not hard to see why Rayo Vallecano might be an attractive destination for Latasa. He can continue to live in Madrid while playing for a solid La Liga side.