According to ESPN, Real Madrid are looking at Eden Hazard, John Stones, and David De Gea, before their transfer ban kicks in.
On Thursday, Real Madrid were handed a year-long transfer ban along with their cross-town rivals, Atletico Madrid. FIFA punished both Madrid clubs for breaching its rules on the international transfer and registration of players aged under 18. However, the ban doesn’t kick in until this summer, leaving both teams with the ability to sign whoever they would like during the current transfer window.
There have been multiple reports emerging out of both Spain and England, that Real Madrid could be tempted to launch massive bids for several Premier League stars. According to a report from ESPN, the Spanish giants are interested in Eden Hazard, John Stones, and David De Gea.
At a press conference on Friday though, Manchester United head coach, Louis van Gaal, claimed not to be worried about losing his goalkeeper, suggesting the Spaniard was happy with the Red Devils.
“I don’t think that kind of thing plays in the mind of David de Gea,” the Dutchman said, via Goal.
“I don’t think that and I have never thought that. That was in a period before the [January] transfer window.
“But now I am seeing a De Gea who is enjoying staying here at Manchester United and playing good games.”
With Zinedine Zidane recently taking over for Rafa Benitez behind the bench at Real Madrid, it is not surprising that he would want to bring in players to meet his style of play. While both Madrid clubs said they plan on appealing the year-long transfer ban, it is unlikely that FIFA will overturn their decision. As a result, January could be Zidane’s last opportunity for over a year to make any acquisitions to his squad.