Reports: Real Madrid eyeing a move for €50 million-rated replacement as superstar follows 'Cristiano Formula' to move out
What's the rumour?
According to Spanish media outlet AS, Real Madrid are lining up a bid for Real Betis left-back Junior Firpo as a potential replacement for Marcelo.
In case you didn't know...
Junior Firpo has been a sensation for Quique Setien's Real Betis side this season. The 22-year old left-back has been one of the pivotal players for his team and garnered wide interest from top clubs across Europe due to his potential.
Despite being a left back, Firpo has 3 goals and 1 assist in La Liga and performed well in the Europa League.
On the other hand, Marcelo is enduring a rough patch and cannot find a way back into form. He was heavily criticized this season for not being able to track back and defend which was depicted in Real Madrid's latest 2-1 defeat against Girona, making matters worse for the veteran Brazilian left-back.
As a result of his poor performance, Reguilon is the first choice for Los Blancos' Real Madrid position.
The heart of the matter
Real Madrid are determined to sign the talented left back from Betis and are considering paying his €50 million release clause to secure his services. Los Blancos hierarchy see Firbo as a perfect, long term replacement for Marcelo.
According to the report, Marcelo has told Real Madrid that he wants to leave the club and follow Cristiano Ronaldo to Juventus. Los Blancos have serious concerns whether Sergio Reguilon can replace the left back.
Both Marcelo and Cristiano share a strong chemistry on and off the pitch and they remain in touch even after the Portuguese talisman's move to Turin. In the last few weeks, Marcelo has informed Cristiano of his current situation at Madrid and the Brazilian knows the exact procedure for a move out from Los Blancos.
Rumour rating: 6/10
Florentino Perez is looking at young talents to bolster the squad and it is no secret that Marcelo is currently unhappy at Madrid. It remains to be seen whether Real Madrid lets him go as easily as Cristiano Ronaldo.
What's next?
Real Madrid will play against Levante before facing FC Barcelona twice in the coming weeks.