Real Madrid targets Swedish midfielder to replace Kroos, but is he the right fit?

Real Madrid is a club used to the comings and goings of any player, but there are absences that mark a difference. The absence of Toni Kroos is a clear example. Even with a high-caliber squad, the lack of the German midfielder in the center of the pitch has been noticed. The management has already started working on finding reinforcements, and Hugo Larsson, from Eintracht Frankfurt, has become an intriguing prospect. But is he the ideal replacement for such an iconic player? The void left by Toni Kroos

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Kroos was one of those players who used to give the rhythm to a team. His vision, passing accuracy, and dominance in midfield completely changed Real Madrid. He is such an important piece that without him, Real lose something considerable, especially when a game requires a construction of plays with balance. Replacement isn't only a technical problem but strategic, too.

Moreover, another midfield cornerstone, Luka Modric, and Dani Ceballos, who is still fighting for his place, also face uncertain futures. This combination of factors makes signing a midfielder a top priority for the upcoming summer transfer window.

Young, promising, and on the rise

Among the names being considered, there is the interesting one of Hugo Larsson from Eintracht Frankfurt according to Sky Sports Germany. Only 20 years old, the Swedish midfielder has blossomed into one of the bright stars in the Bundesliga this season, as on several occasions he was named one of the key players for a team currently running second in the league, which happens to be right behind Bayern Munich.

In 19 matches this season, Larsson has scored four goals and provided one assist; very good numbers for a midfielder. But beyond the numbers, his presence on the pitch is remarkable. Though operating as the closest thing to a pivot in his team's tactical scheme, Larsson has an impressive way of pushing into the opponent's box and contributing to active attacking plays. His evolution hasn't gone unnoticed. Besides being a starter at his club, he has already made his international debut for Sweden's senior national team, and he definitely is one of the most exciting talents in European soccer.

The price of Sweden's rising star

Signed by Eintracht Frankfurt in 2023 from Malmö for €9 million, Larsson has seen his value skyrocket. His current market value is estimated at €28 million, but his actual transfer fee could go as high as €50 million. It's a significant investment, but one Real Madrid is used to making when they see potential in a young player.

The Spanish club has a proud tradition of betting on promising talents and converting them into stars. Recent examples, such as Vinícius Jr. and Rodrygo, give reasons for Madrid's expertise in investing in the future. However, the competition might make things a little complex. Manchester United are also reportedly tracking the Swedish midfielder, and a tag-team tussle between the two giants can further jack up his price.

Is Larsson the right replacement for Kroos?

Some pretty interesting attributes make Hugo Larsson an exciting player in many ways, physically strong and with capabilities for both defense and creativity. However, as a replacement for Kroos, this does feel like a little of a gamble.

Kroos is a unique player whose experience and game control are hard to replicate, especially by someone so young. Larsson could bring energy and a fresh style to the midfield, but expecting him to immediately fill Kroos's shoes would be unfair.

Furthermore, Real Madrid can opt to reinforce midfield with more players, especially if Modric or Ceballos leaves them too. This would offer the possibility of having a very dynamic system in which Larsson may be an important piece but not the whole responsibility of replacing Kroos.