The New Kroos Won't Play for Real Madrid, Manchester City about to Close the Deal

Real Madrid is still determined to find a player who can fill the gap left by Toni Kroos. The German's retirement last summer was a very painful blow for the Meringues. They lost a key piece in organizing the game and getting out of pressure.

In fact, during the first weeks of competition, they felt it until gradually the pieces have fallen into place. Dani Ceballos has stepped up in this regard, but they consider it insufficient. They want someone who can take on those responsibilities in the long term.

One of the players they liked the most was Hugo Larsson, one of Eintracht Frankfurt jewels. At 20 years old, he's standing out in the Bundesliga thanks to his great quality. The reports handled by the white team make him one of the most appealing alternatives.

However, they've priced him at 80 million euros and Manchester City would be willing to make a significant outlay. That's what they assure from England, which makes things very complicated for Real Madrid. Pep Guardiola's team is reportedly very close to closing the deal.

Real Madrid has two more options to strengthen the midfield

Once it seems that the option of Hugo Larsson is practically ruled out, there are more options. Real Madrid hasn'ted down 2 names to strengthen the midfield next summer. Although neither of them seems easy to close for the Meringues.

On one hand, the name Florian Wirtz is mentioned, who will be Florentino's next top-tier. Although he's very close to renewing with Bayer Leverkusen, they haven't given up on him yet. He's not a playmaking midfielder, and his arrival would be delayed until 2026, after the World Cup.

That makes the favorite Zubimendi, for price, quality, and as a future project. Getting him out of Real Sociedad would cost 60 million, and for his performance, they see it as a very logical price. Although other clubs like Arsenal or even Manchester City are very alert to him.