Sergio Ramos' emotional departure from Real Madrid means the Liga giants could do with an additional center-back, with Spanish publication AS claiming the club have already identified one man who could replace the iconic defender. Unfortunately, it's bad news for Premier League side Man United.
That man on Los Blancos radar is none other than Pau Torres, the exciting Spaniard who is currently representing La Furia Roja in the ongoing Euro 2020 tournament. The Villarreal ace's stocks have been rising, garnering more interest after guiding his club to the UEFA Europa League title, beating the Red Devils on penalty.
Ramos, who was in tears in his farewell ceremony, said his goodbye on Thursday, leaving newly-appointed coach Carlo Ancelotti with only four senior center-backs: Raphael Varane, Eder Militao, Nacho and David Alaba. Given that Varane has also been linked with an exit, it's not too surprising to see Los Merengues on the hunt for new signings.
Here is where Torres comes in as the Yellow Submarine talent in an attractive option. Not only is he young – he's 24 years old – but the Spaniard is also experienced, forcing his way into the national team set-up after an incredible campaign with Unai Emery's side.
It remains uncertain whether Florentino Perez can beat out competition from the Red Devils as their interest in the Spaniard is no kept secret. Not only are Real Madrid one of the biggest clubs in Spain, they are also one of, if not the, biggest clubs in the world. This could give them an upper hand over the Premier League outfits. Unfortunately, the financial crisis at the Santiago Bernabeu has severely handicapped the European giants.
Villarreal are said to be demanding $59.4M for the center-back, a figure Florentino Perez will struggle to cough up this summer. As a result, AS speculate Los Blancos will wait until next summer, when their finances return to somewhat normality, to pursue Torres. Whether he remains at the Estadio de la Cerámica or gets swooped up by Man United before that, time will reveal.
