Report: Real Madrid eyeing a move for Cristiano Ronaldo's heir
What's the rumor?
According to Spanish media outlet AS, Real Madrid are eyeing a move for Portuguese sensation Jota. The Benfica starlet who is touted as the successor of Cristiano Ronaldo in Portuguese football.
In case you didn't know...
The 19-year old attacker, who currently plays for Benfica, has already featured in the first Lisbon team in Copa. Widely touted as the heir to Portuguese talisman Cristiano Ronaldo, Jota was in the European U-17 champion team which won against Brahim Diaz's Spain
Jota also featured in the European U-19 champion team and dominated the tournament where he was the best player and leading scorer.
A combination of explosive wing play and efficiency in front of goal, Jota has attracted wide interested throughout Europe due to his sensational talent. His current contract with Benfica ends in 2022 which has a €30 million release clause.
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The heart of the matter
The 19-year-old is among the names in Real Madrid's wish list. Los Blancos are determined to secure the services of Jota, who can be a long term solution to the team's front line and have been trying to lure him away from Benfica.
According to the report, Benfica turned down an €18 million bid from the Spanish Giants. Benfica are trying to renew his contract with a new, lucrative deal to increase the player's release clause to €120 million.
But the Portuguese talent does not want to renew his deal because he sees Real Madrid as a level up in his career and wants to play for the Spanish Giants.
Meanwhile, Real Madrid's current transfer policy involves investing in youth talents and Jota fits their profile perfectly.
Rumour rating: 6/10
Los Blancos are looking for new talents to strengthen their squad and build a team for the future. Florentino Perez is determined to increase the depth of the squad this summer and Jota's arrival will only boost the squad depth.
What's next?
Real Madrid will play against Levante before facing FC Barcelona twice in the coming weeks. Meanwhile, Jota will feature for Portugal in the U-20 World Cup in Poland this May.