Real Madrid manager Rafa Benitez has identified Juventus forward Fernando Llorente as the man to bring in to increase his attacking options, according to reports.
La Sexta says the new Real boss wants a striker in a similar mould to Karim Benzema, the club’s only out-and-out striker to relieve the pressure on the Frenchman and give his side more options in the forward line.
Llorente moved to Juventus from Athletic Bilbao two years ago and enjoyed a superb opening campaign in Seria A, netting sixteen goals. But last season he found himself down the pecking order, pushed out by the likes of Carlos Tevez and Alvaro Morata. Juventus’ recent purchase of Mario Mandzukic, Simone Zaza and Paulo Dybala will limit his options further at the Champions League finalists.
The 30-year-old, who spent eight seasons in the first team at San Mames, scoring 85 goals for Athletic, has been linked with a switch to the Premier League with both Arsenal and Liverpool interested.
But reports say he would prefer a move back to his homeland if Juventus decide to sell him.
Real are expected to be busy in the transfer market in the coming weeks as the look to bolster their squad. They have already confirmed the arrivals of Casemiro, who returns from is loan at Porto as well as Danilo, the Brazilian right back. Espanyol winger Lucas Vasquez will also rejoin the club he grew up at.
