According to reports, Real Madrid is preparing to strengthen its squad in the upcoming summer transfer window, with Gabriel Jesus, the Arsenal forward, being their top target.
Real Madrid is currently 12 points behind their archrivals Barcelona in the La Liga title race, making it unlikely that they will defend their domestic crown. Club President Florentino Perez was notably absent from the recent El Clasico loss to Barcelona, instead opting to attend a Real Madrid basketball match, which they also lost.
However, Real Madrid’s success will ultimately be judged on their performance in European competitions rather than domestic ones, and this could prompt them to pursue high-profile signings such as Gabriel Jesus to bolster their attacking options.
As the current season continues, Real Madrid is already beginning to think about their plans for the summer transfer window.
With rumors circulating that their manager Carlo Ancelotti may leave to become the new Brazil boss, the club may need to find a replacement, with Julian Nagelsmann reportedly on their list of potential candidates.
In addition to considering managerial changes, Real Madrid’s president Florentino Perez is also reportedly eyeing up changes to the playing squad, with a four-man shortlist reportedly drawn up for the summer transfer window.
Gabriel Jesus, the Arsenal forward, is said to be at the top of the list, with the Brazilian seen as both competition and cover for Karim Benzema, who can also play in multiple positions.
With Karim Benzema now 35 years old and only having a year left on his contract, Real Madrid may begin to transition him out of his integral role in the team.
To this end, Gabriel Jesus, who has been performing impressively for Arsenal since joining the club from Manchester City for a reported fee of £45 million last summer, is reportedly being considered as a potential replacement.
In 16 league starts for Arsenal, Jesus has provided five goals and six assists, showcasing his attacking prowess and versatility on the pitch.
Despite Gabriel Jesus’ impressive performances for Arsenal, the club has managed to maintain its position at the top of the table, currently holding an eight-point lead, even during his recent absence due to injury.
While the possibility of a large offer from Real Madrid may tempt Arsenal to sell, it is likely that their decision will also depend on Real’s pursuit of other targets.
In addition to Jesus, Real Madrid has been heavily linked with a move for Erling Haaland, with reports indicating that Manchester City may offer the Norwegian striker a substantial contract to fend off Real’s interest.
According to the report, Real Madrid’s next priority target after Gabriel Jesus is Jude Bellingham, although they anticipate stiff competition for the midfielder.
They are also considering Celta Vigo’s Gabri Veiga as they aim to refresh their central midfield, which still includes veterans Luka Modric and Toni Kroos.
Additionally, they are reportedly interested in bringing back Fran Garcia, a left-back they sold in 2021, by triggering a buy-back clause. Finally, Brahim Diaz, currently on loan at AC Milan, may also return to play for Real Madrid when his two-year loan deal ends this summer.