In a desperate move for complete overhaul and still stay in the elite realm of Europe elite cadre, Real Madrid has initiated a move for Super Eagles’ winger, Samuel Chukwueze.
The Nigerian forward was on Tuesday named the Laliga’s ‘African Player of the Season’ thus making him one of the beautiful brides when the transfer window officially opens next month.
According to soccernet.com, Spanish club, Villarreal has also told the former La Liga champions that nothing short of €80million will be acceptable to actualize the big move of the Nigerian forward.
The AFCON 2019 bronze medal winner in Egypt for Nigeria set the media wave bubbling last April following his dazzling form at the Real Madrid Santiago Bernabue fortress as he pivoted the Yellow Submarine’s come-back to beat the former champions 3-2 with two goals from Chukwueze.
The feat helped the former Europa League winner in the initial quest to escape relegation but pushed the side back into the second tier of European club football next season.
The club is reportedly not willing to let one their best players leave but also aim to consolidate in the strong department in the coming seasons.
Chukwueze’s contract at Villarreal expires at the end of next season, but he is unwilling to extend his stay at the club.
Aside Real Madrid, there is an undisclosed offer from Arsenal who are also aiming to reduce the pressure off Nigerian-born Bukayo Saka on the right side of the attack in which Chukwueze can readily fit in and Tottenham Hotspurs are also considering the forward as well.
However, the 24-year-old forward may remain in Spain. Top Spanish outlet, AS Diario reports that Real Madrid have started talks with Villarreal for the tricky, Nigerian winger.
But the Yellow Submarine are wanted €80million before they sanction the transfer.
According to Transfermarkt, Chukwueze is worth €20million, but Villarreal could choose to ask for more because of the interest that the Nigerian has garnered.
West Ham and Aston Villa are also some of the clubs that are interested.
Chukwueze registred 13 goals and provided 11 assists across all competitions in the just concluded campaign.
He had struggled for a regular shirt at the start of the season but transformed back in the middle of the loaded season to become a key member of the team.