UMVA has learned that Real Madrid's search for a central midfielder to fill the void left by Toni Kroos is heating up, with the Spanish giants making it a top priority this summer.
Their ideal target would have been one of Paris Saint-Germain's dynamic duo, Vitinha or Joao Neves, but speculation was put to rest after President Florentino's €150m bid for a star player was reportedly turned down by Atletico Madrid.
Vitinha has long been cited as Real Madrid's 'dream' signing for their central midfield, but it seems unlikely that PSG would part with either player, given their exceptional talent and current happiness at the French club.
In a statement put out by agent Jorge Mendes, who represents both Vitinha and Joao Neves, as well as new Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho, the speculation was shut down: "Vitinha and Joao were never an option for anyone. They are non-negotiable for Paris Saint-Germain and are very happy at PSG. They will continue to accumulate trophies."
With the PSG duo now ruled out, Real Madrid's attention has turned to alternative targets, including Liverpool's Alexis Mac Allister and Chelsea's Enzo Fernandez, who have both been linked to the Spanish club in recent months.
However, according to information obtained by UMVA, Mourinho's top choice is West Ham United's Mateus Fernandes, who he sees as the perfect blend of technical quality and commitment to help Los Blancos become a more solid unit again.
Sources have confirmed to UMVA that Fernandes is high on Mourinho's wishlist, and Real Madrid may now focus their efforts on securing his signature in the coming weeks.
