Real Madrid Transfer News Roundup: Los Blancos identify Andriy Lunin replacement, Carlo Ancelotti counting on Arda Guler, and more - August 2, 2024
Real Madrid enjoyed a tremendous 2023-24 campaign under Carlo Ancelotti, winning La Liga, the UEFA Champions League, and the Supercopa de Espana. Ahead of the next season, the Italian manager has further strengthened his squad by roping in Kylian Mbappe and Endrick.
Meanwhile, Los Blancos are planning to turn to their youth side to address the uncertainties surrounding Andriy Lunin. Elsewhere, Carlo Ancelotti has Arda Guler firmly in his plans for the new season.
On that note, let's look at the major Real Madrid transfer stories from August 2, 2024.
Real Madrid identify Andriy Lunin replacement
Real Madrid could turn to Fran Gonzalez to help address Andriy Lunin's potential departure, according to The Athletic. The Ukrainian goalkeeper has entered the final year of his contract and hasn't signed a new deal yet.
Lunin was outstanding for Los Blancos last season (12 clean sheets in 31 games), stepping up to help deal with Thibaut Courtois' absence due to injury. However, he lost his place in the team once the Belgian returned to fitness in the final weeks of the season.
Lunin remains the No. 2 at the Santiago Bernabeu and is understandably frustrated by the situation. The 25-year-old is already being eyed by multiple clubs across the continent, who can offer him regular football.
The La Liga champions would like him to stay but are preparing for his departure. Real Madrid will turn to their youth goalkeeper Gonzalez to take the step up to the senior side if Lunin leaves.
The 19-year-old is with Los Blancos' squad touring the US, and Carlo Ancelotti is apparently impressed by his efforts. The La Liga giants believe the Spaniard has the ability to be Courtois' deputy and eventually replace the Belgian in the starting XI.
Carlo Ancelotti counting on Arda Guler
Carlo Ancelotti has hinted that he has Arda Guler firmly in his plans for the upcoming season. The Turkish international failed to live up to expectations at Real Madrid after arriving from Fenerbahce last summer.
Guler was sidelined with injuries in the first half of the campaign but struggled for game time under Ancelotti once he returned to fitness. The 19-year-old still managed six goals from 12 appearances for Los Blancos.
Guler took his game to a higher level at Euro 2024 (one goal and two assists in five games), prompting interest from multiple clubs across the continent. AC Milan are apparently ready to take him on loan, while recent reports have suggested that Newcastle United also have their eyes on the teenager.
However, speaking to the press, as cited by Madrid Universal, Ancelotti tipped Guler to have a prominent role with the La Liga champions in the upcoming season.
“Arda has trained very well during his holidays. He has returned stronger, more resilient and with the same quality. I think it will be an important season for him, with more prominence,” Ancelotti said.
He continued:
“His best position is number 10, playing between the lines, but better on the right side so that he can take advantage of the quality of his left foot. With time he could also be a good midfielder.”
Guler could help Real Madrid fill Toni Kroos' void at the Santiago Bernabeu.
Lucas Vazquez opens up on renewal
Lucas Vazquez has said he is delighted after signing a new deal with Real Madrid. The Spanish utility man's contract expired this summer but Los Blancos tied him down to a new deal last month.
Vazquez has been vital to the club's plans in recent seasons. While he has largely played second fiddle to Dani Carvajal, his experience and work ethic have served the Spanish champions well. Vazquez is also expected to take up a prominent role in the backroom following Nacho Fernandez's departure this summer.
Speaking after the tie against AC Milan, Vazquez also expressed pride at wearing the captain's armband for the game.
“Captain’s armband? Today I had to wear it and it is a real honour. I am very happy with that. I’m happy about the renewal and being where I wanted to be. On a personal level, I’m trying to help the team and improve on last season. In football, you always have something to learn,“ Vazquez said (via Madrid Universal).
He continued:
“Playing as a fullback? The important thing is to be on the field and help the team in any way I can. I have to perform where the coach tells me to.”
The La Liga champions have appointed Luka Modric as Nacho's successor for the armband, but Vazquez is expected to be among the four skippers at the club.