Juventus’ plan to replace Cristiano Ronaldo could trigger Kylian Mbappe’s move to Real Madrid, reports say.
With Ronaldo already set to officially make his return to Manchester United, Juventus is now considering Real Madrid’s Eden Hazard as a suitable “replacement,” Spanish outlet Marca reported.
Hazard is currently Juve’s top priority, with the report suggesting that he is likely to become a fringe player at Real Madrid following the potential arrival of Mbappe from Paris Saint-Germain.
According to the outlet, the Belgian would prefer to stay at Bernabeu but also wants to join a club that will play him regularly and will make him “feel important,” something Los Blancos may not be able to guarantee with Mbappe around.
Real Madrid, on the other hand, is very keen on landing Mbappe and is now “planning to trim down” the squad for the PSG striker, according to Goal.
Carlo Ancelotti’s side is making Hazard available in the market as the club is already looking forward to bringing in Mbappe, the report noted.
Los Blancos reportedly tabled an “improved” €170 million ($200 million) bid for the World Cup winner after having their opening offer turned down by the Parisians. International Business Times could not independently verify this information.
Moreover, PSG is now open to the idea that Mbappe is leaving the club after the player refused to renew his contract, according to the report.
However, amid the widespread rumors claiming Mbappe is close to joining his team, Real Madrid boss Ancelotti insisted that the decision is not his to make.
“It’s something that the club handles,” Ancelotti said. “I understand that it’s interesting, but I can’t say anything else.”
Prior to Mbappe, it was Ronaldo who was heavily linked to Real Madrid in what could’ve become a sensational return.
However, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner shut down the “rumors” before eventually rejoining Manchester United.
"More than the disrespect for me as a man and as a player, the frivolous way that my future is covered in the media is disrespectful to all the clubs involved in these rumors, as well as to their players and staff,” Ronaldo wrote on Instagram.
"My story at Real Madrid has been written,” he continued. “It’s been recorded. In words and numbers, in trophies and titles, in records and in headlines. It’s in the Museum at the Bernabeu Stadium and it’s also in the minds of every fan of the club.”
Ronaldo added, “I’m breaking my silence now to say that I can’t allow people to keep playing around with my name. I remain focused on my career and in my work, committed and prepared for all the challenges that I have to face. Everything else? Everything else is just talk."
