Real Madrid are set to go without any new signings in the next transfer window, as the Spanish giants face the financial ramifications caused by the coronavirus crisis.
Los Blancos are typically front and centre when it comes to the biggest transfer stories. However, Marca reports that Madrid are unlikely to spend this summer as a result of the huge losses incurred by the Covid-19-inflicted halt in play this season.
According to the report, Madrid’s loss of revenue streams, including matchday sales and broadcast money, have lead to huge losses, and the club is anticipating a loss of around €150m (£135m) next season if games are played behind closed doors.
The club are looking to see if the losses from this season can be somewhat salvaged by the wage cut taken by players and staff.
In addition, Madrid is upgrading the Santiago Bernabéu stadium at the moment, work that will not be completed until October.
Their economic situation has left Madrid’s board planning a summer without new signings, as the pursuit of several transfer targets is put on hold.
The players linked with Madrid have been told to listen to offers from other clubs, or to hold out for another year for their move to the Bernabeu. There is an understanding at the club that many of their rivals will be facing the same economic predicaments as them.
Two players heavily linked with a switch to the Spanish capital this summer are Borussia Dortmund’s Erling Haaland and Rennes’ Eduardo Camavinga.
The Borussia Dortmund striker has emerged as the most sought after footballer with his dazzling performances for the Germans and former club RB Salzburg this season. He had been identified as Karim Benzema’s successor.
Camavinga, meanwhile, has been on Madrid’s radar for some time. The 17-year-old wonderkid from Rennes has been earmarked as a star in the making and would provide strong cover for Casemiro, who has suffered injury problems this season.
Reports in France say that the teenager is intent on joining, with manager Zinedine Zidane a key draw for the youngster.
Madrid have also been linked with moves for French duo Paul Pogba and Kylian Mbappe, albeit not as strongly as the aforementioned two players.
Pogba has been nearing the exit door at Manchester United for some time, although were he to leave, former club Juventus would be favourites for his signature.
It has been reported that key figures in the Madrid dressing room would be against Pogba joining if it meant he were to earn more money than them.
Mbappe has been a long-term target for Madrid president Florentino Perez, although PSG are determined to keep hold of the striker.
