Real Madrid eye Villarreal's Romanian starlet Andrei Florin
The right-back is a fixture in the Villarreal B side, and is set to go to this summer's European Under-21 Championship in Italy and San Marino.
Real Madrid are out to add a right-back to the ranks of their second team, Castilla, and have set their sights on a summer swoop for Villarreal B's Andrei Florin. An explosive, attack-minded full-back who is also diligent in his defensive duties, the Romanian, 20, is a fixture in the Submarino Amarillo's reserves, who are top of their division in Segunda B, Spain's regionalised third tier.
Florin's good form for Villarreal B has led to international recognition at age-group level. After a string of failed attempts, Romania Under-21s have qualified for this summer's European Championship, and the defender is all but certain to make the squad for the finals. Given that the tournament in Italy and San Marino is meant for players with birthdays from 1996 onwards, his inclusion - he was born in 1998 - would be slightly ahead of schedule.
Real Madrid out to avoid being drawn into bidding war
If Madrid do move for Florin, they would be keen to seal a deal before the Euros, which begin on 16 June. In a summer with no senior World Cup or European Championship, the tournament will be the chief close-season shop window for the top talent around, and Los Blancos are well aware that a good showing at the finals may well increase the player's asking price - and the competition they face for his services.
Florin earmarked for regular first-team role in the future
Madrid feel Florin has the potential to challenge for a regular first-team spot in the future and, in the event of an injury crisis, could offer reliable cover in the here and now. He is also seen as a player who would bring valuable extra experience to the Castilla team.
