Ever since Toni Kroos retired following the 2023/24 season, Real Madrid have been searching far and wide for his replacement and have fallen short every time. The club were expecting someone like Federico Valverde, Aurelien Tchouameni, or Eduardo Camavinga to step up and fill the void left by the German, but so far, his boots have proven too heavy to fill.
As a result, the club has its eyes on the transfer market for the perfect tempo-controlling midfielder the squad desperately lacks. Real reportedly missed out on Martin Zubimendi to Arsenal, but they still have other options on their list who are still available, like Vitinha, Angelo Stiller, and Rodri, who could arrive at Madrid to be the player to finally fill the shoes left by Toni Kroos.
There's another player on Real's midfield transfer list who is pushing for a move to Los Blancos who could be the solution the midfield needs, however, opinions at the club are divided on when or if the club should sign him.
Real Madrid eyeing experienced midfield star
As being reported by Carrusel Deportivo (via theMadridZone on X) Al Hilal midfielder Ruben Neves wants to join Real Madrid in the January transfer window as he looks to leave the Saudi Pro League and return to Europe.
The report goes on to state that coaches at Los Blancos believe he is the midfielder needed to fix the current issues but the board however has their doubts as the don't want to spend money on him this money, and would rather sign him for free when his contract expires in the summer.
The 28-year-old is an experienced midfield general and a master of controlling the tempo and long-range play-making with his passing ability that leaves many in awe. He's also good for the occasional screamer of a goal, which is something all fans love from their midfielders.
The Portuguese has only six months left on his contract and would be available as a free agent, but even though Real have established themselves as the masters of the free transfer in recent years, they still risk losing him to other teams, like Manchester United. Hence why some at Los Blancos prefer to get the deal done this month rather than waiting till the summer.