Real Madrid pulled off one of the shockers of the summer transfer window when they allowed Casemiro to leave for Manchester United for a transfer package that could rise up to £70 million including add-ons. It is safe to say that the Brazilian had been a big part of Los Blancos’ side for years and played a key part in their past four Champions League triumphs.
But this time around, Real Madrid were ready to let him leave. On one hand, perhaps the offer from Manchester United was too good for them to turn down, especially since Casemiro is 30 years of age now.
On the other hand, Aurelien Tchouameni has slid in seamlessly into the side and incredibly, Real Madrid are not feeling the absence of Casemiro at the moment. Of course, that could change as the season progresses and more high pressure matches come up, a situation that the Brazilian star thrived in.
It looks like Real Madrid have another Brazilian defensive midfielder in their sights though, as they have been heavily linked with Joao Gomes of Flamengo recently. But in that race, Liverpool could end up handing them a major blow.
Real Madrid could be handed big blow by Liverpool in the race to sign Gomes from Flamengo
As reported by SPORT, Liverpool are ready to pay the €60 million release clause of Gomes.
Rumours have suggested that Real Madrid were hoping that they would be able to sign Gomes for a figure much lower than that but now, it looks like those plans might not work out with Liverpool in the race.
Real Madrid have a few advantages in the race as well though. They have been successful in developing quite a few young Brazilian players into stars in recent years, namely Vinicius Jr, Eder Militao and Rodrygo. Thus, it might very well be a much more attractive destination for someone like Gomes, who is yet to taste European football.