Real Madrid facing competition from Manchester United and Arsenal for EURO 2024 star - Reports
With Adrien Rabiot leaving Juventus as a free agent, the 29-year-old Frenchman has become a hot commodity in the transfer market. All summer, the midfielder has been linked to a move to Manchester United, however, according to a recent report from La Gazzetta dello Sport, three European giants - Real Madrid, Atletico Madrid, and Arsenal - are also vying for his signature.
After ending a five-year stint with the Italian giants, Rabiot is aiming for greener pastures, and he already has a few suitors. But there's still a cloud of uncertainty over his preferred destination, and with Real Madrid entering the negotiation the scales might be altered.
Rabiot was on the brink of joining the Red Devils in 2020 and then again in 2022, and reports suggested that United were intent on completing the deal this time around. However, the entry of the two Madrid clubs and Arsenal could complicate the situation.
Real Madrid have no midfield additions in the summer so far, even with Toni Kroos hanging up his boots and Modric turning 39 a month later. Thus, Rabiot could strengthen a depleting midfield. Meanwhile, their arch-rivals Atleti are keen on acquiring the services of Connor Gallagher, and Rabiot could be the second name on their target list if the move for the Chelsea star falls through.
The Gunners are also said to be interested in the French midfielder, but with the club closing in on Mikel Merino, it might be a surprise if Mikel Arteta welcomes another midfielder into the squad.
All the other clubs negotiating at the table can provide the UEFA Champions League proposition, excluding Man United. But the prospect of donning the bright red, and a clear team role could ultimately sway Rabiot's decision.
Why are Real Madrid interested in securing Adrien Rabiot's signature?
Last season, Rabiot scored five goals and provided three assists in 35 appearances for Juventus in the Serie A. He accumulated four starts in the Italian Cup as well. Moreover, the midfielder had noticeably improved performances in Euro 2024, where he helped France reach the semi-finals.
Acquiring his services would help Real Madrid strengthen their backline, which has been depleted. Rabiot can slot into multiple roles into the middle of the park - well capable of playing as No. 6 in a double pivot or even as a conservative No. 8. Introduction of the Frenchman can give the likes of Fede Valverde and Jude Bellingham the utmost freedom the up the pitch.
For Real Madrid and Carlo Ancelotti, he could also be a signing that would further double down on their already envious bench strength.