Real Madrid striker Gonzalo Garcia has emerged as an unexpected transfer target for Leeds United, after his impressive showing in the Club World Cup.
Chelsea won the Club World Cup this month, inspired by Cole Palmer who won the Golden Ball award.
But there was another name who caught the eye in the States: Gonzalo Garcia, who was the joint-top scorer in the whole competition with four goals in six games for Real Madrid.
The 21-year-old had only managed three La Liga appearances last season. But he showed the whole world the potential he has during this summer’s tournament.
Back at Elland Road, Daniel Farke has made four new signings as he readies his Leeds United side for a Premier League campaign that’ll no doubt prove gruelling, with more signings looking very close to completion.
Leeds United’s chances of signing Gonzalo Garcia from Real Madrid seem slim
This week, reports revealed how Leeds United are interested in signing Garcia on loan from Real Madrid this summer. It’s speculated that the Spaniard could leave Madrid, either on loan or even on a permanent deal, but Fabrizio Romano has already poured cold water over that idea.
Posting earlier in the month, journalist Romano played down any potential exit for Garcia this summer, be it a permanent or temporary one, insisting that new Real Madrid boss Xabi Alonso is happy with Garcia, writing: “Real Madrid won’t listen to any loan or permanent deal proposals for Gonzalo García. He’s expected to stay at the club at this stage, with Xabi Alonso very happy.”
Xabi Alonso has already spoken very fondly of Gonzalo Garcia
It’s no surprise to hear that Garcia isn’t going anywhere, despite some widespread interest in a loan deal following the Club World Cup.
Alonso has already sung his praises this summer, even comparing him to Madrid legend Raul.
Speaking about Garcia’s Club World Cup form, Alonso said: “I knew a lot about him. Because I’ve been following him for a long time. So for me it’s not a surprise, he’s always reading the game, there’s a few things in which he reminds me of Raul, he’s a typical number nine.
“There’s still no decision with respect to next season. We’re focused on the Club World Cup with the players we have. Obviously the Club World Cup tells you things, but we’re yet to make decisions.”
Leeds United have signed Lukas Nmecha for their frontline ahead of next season. But with the uncertainty over Mateo Joseph’s future at the club, and Patrick Bamford’s too expect Farke to be keen on possibly two striker signings this summer, maybe more if Joseph or Bamford move on.
Whilst a move for Garcia may be over already, it goes to show the ambition that Leeds United have this summer, and we may yet see a really top, young player arrive at Elland Road this summer, on a loan deal for next season.
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