Real Madrid interested in Roma’s Kostas Manolas
Real Madrid are reportedly keen on signing Greek center back Kostas Manolas in the summer.
Manolas has always been one of the best defenders in Europe, but shot into the spotlight last season in the Champions League.
His goal in Roma’s 3-0 win over Barcelona at home proved to be the one that knocked the Catalans out of the competition.
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Real Madrid have been struggling at both ends of the pitch this season, and Florentino Perez wants to shore up his defense by recruiting the 27-year-old.
According to TMW, Perez will make a move for his man only next summer, as a big money signing in January might be perceived as an indication of weakness in a season that has seen the Los Blancos drop to 5th in the table after 5 losses in 14 matches.
Manolas has a release clause at Roma that could be triggered for just €36 million, which would be an absolute bargain in the current market.
Real Madrid’s current choice of center backs include Raphael Varane, Sergio Ramos, Nacho, and youngsters like Jesus Vallejo and Javi Sanchez. Most of their defenders have been under-performing though, and they’ve already conceded 19 goals in the league.
Manolas would add some much-needed depth and steel to their back line, and could also be a long-term replacement for the 32-year-old Ramos.
He was signed by Roma from Olympiacos in the summer of 2014 for €15 million. He’s been a first team player for them ever since, and has been linked with moves to several European giants previously, including Chelsea, Arsenal and Tottenham.
Manolas is known for his strength, speed and raw defensive ability. He’s also capable of playing the ball out from the back, and his aerial prowess provides an attacking outlet from set pieces.
After the sacking of Julen Lopetegui following the 5-1 El Clasico defeat, Santiago Solari was appointed the interim manager, and was soon handed the permanent post.
Next. Valencia emerge as front-runners to sign Fabregas. dark
However, an embarrassing 3-0 defeat to Eibar recently showed that they still have a lot of work to do. Their next match is an away fixture at Huesca on Sunday.