REAL MADRID
Will Real Madrid sign Bayern’s Davies? Agent talks stepped up
Real Madrid have identified Alphonso Davies as their chief target to bolster a position that has been a weakness at the Bernabéu.
Real Madrid continue to make good progress in their pursuit of Bayern Munich and Canada left-back Alphonso Davies.
As Diario AS revealed late last year, the 23-year-old is a priority target for Los Blancos, as they attempt to strengthen one of the weakest positions in their squad.
Neither Ferland Mendy nor Fran García have fully convinced on the left of Madrid’s defence, with head coach Carlo Ancelotti frequently preferring to use midfielder Eduardo Camavinga in the role.
Madrid step up Davies pursuit
AS has learned that conversations with Davies’ agent, Nedal Huoseh, have intensified in recent weeks, amid optimism at Madrid that they can secure the defender’s services.
The Ghana-born player is open to leaving Bayern for the Spanish capital in summer 2024, a year before his contract in Munich expires.
And having tried to extend Davies’ deal several times without success, Bayern have covered for his potential departure by signing Raphäel Guerreiro from Borussia Dortmund.
The Portugal international, 29, moved to Bavaria on a free transfer on a three-year contract in the summer. Injury issues have so far prevented Guerreiro from providing Davies with competition for Bayern’s left-back spot, but he now appears close to returning to full fitness.
Bayern reportedly ready to sell for just over $50m
Faced by the prospect of losing Davies, Bayern are believed to be ready to negotiate a sale in 12 months’ time, rather than let him leave for free in 2025.
According to the well-connected German publication Sport Bild, the Bundesliga champions are willing to part with Davies for a €50 million ($54 million) transfer fee.
While Madrid are not thought to be prepared to pay such a figure, Bayern’s apparent willingness to name their price is a source of encouragement to the 14-time European champions.
Davies desire key to seeing off PL competition
However, several Premier League clubs - chiefly Manchester City and Chelsea - have also expressed an interested in signing Davies.
In response, Madrid have made it clear to the player and his agent that they will push hard to take him to the Bernabéu, but cannot be drawn into a bidding war with clubs that boast greater financial muscle.
If Madrid are to snare the Canadian international ahead of other major suitors, it is therefore likely to be key that the player holds out for a switch to Los Merengues.
The Spanish club are confident that they are his first-choice destination.