Real Madrid president Florentino Perez has admitted the club could make a sensational move for Barcelona player Thiago Alcantara – and could sign him for as little as 18 million euros.
The 22-year-old’s future at the Nou Camp has come into doubt in recent months due to his limited playing time.
The midfielder, who has been likened to Xavi Hernandez and Andres Initesa, is thought be wanted by Manchester United and Manchester City.
But speaking to Sport, Perez said Los Blancos could also make a move for Thiago.
He is quoted as saying: “If Barca aren’t interested in Thiago, and if our new coach is interested, we would like to sign him.”
Thiago has a buy out clause set at a mouth-watering 90 million euros, but that figure drops dramatically should he fail to play a certain percentage of his side’s matches – meaning any prospective buyer could sign him for 18 million.
He is expected to play a key role with Spain’s Under 21 side this summer when they take part in the Under-21 European Championships.
