The need for Real Madrid to sign a new midfielder is no secret. In fact, the shortlist has already been filled with several top names including Dominik Szoboszlai, Enzo Fernandez, Vitinha and Kees Smit, among others. On top of that, it now appears that the club has set its sights on Hertha Berlin’s Kennet Eichhorn, as reported by Defensa Central.
Following the departure of the legendary duo Toni Kroos and Luka Modric, the team has lacked fluidity and control in midfield. This has already cost Real dearly in important matches against top teams this season. Therefore, it is not surprising that the club’s board is trying to find solutions as soon as possible.
Eichhorn ticks most of the boxes for Real and could develop into one of the best midfielders in the world under the right guidance, which would hardly be an issue at the Bernabeu. So he seems to be a perfect candidate for the job.
Real Madrid ready to move for Kennet Eichhorn
Eichhorn has caught the attention of many with his footballing ability at such a young age. Sky Sports Germany has already dubbed him a prodigy. The 16-year-old has appeared in 15 matches for his club this season across all competitions and has scored one goal. That said, he will certainly have to wait some time before breaking into the senior team at Real.
The Los Blancos have been monitoring the youngster for quite some time now and are reportedly prepared to make a move if the right opportunity presents itself. They would have to pay around €12 million to match the release clause Hertha Berlin holds in his contract.
However, an agreement can only be reached if the German youngster gives the green light, which is not guaranteed given interest from other top European clubs including Borussia Dortmund, Bayern Munich, RB Leipzig, Barcelona and Manchester United. Therefore, a tug of war for Eichhorn’s signature cannot be ruled out.
Toni Kroos' brother Felix is a big fan of the Hertha youngster. He said (via Bundesliga's website):
“That’s what got him to where he is now. The way he plays is remarkable. He radiates calm, he’s gaining valuable experience but is allowed to make mistakes. I hope he continues to develop at Hertha."
Having considered all, Eichhorn seems to be a long-term project rather than an instant solution, which is a necessity for Real at the moment. So even if they manage to sign the German youngster, it would be wise for the Los Blancos to bring an established player alongside him as well.