Harry Kane is on the top list as the possibility to replace Karim Benzema by Real Madrid. But they are aware of the challenges involved in signing the Tottenham attacker, according to several sources.
While Kane possesses the necessary qualities to play for Real Madrid, there are concerns about his age, transfer fee, and Tottenham’s reluctance to part with their star player.
Initially, Madrid intended to recruit a backup forward, such as Joselu from Espanyol. And then theyw ant to make a substantial investment in the forward position the following year. The club had even pondered signing Erling Haaland or Kylian Mbappe in 2024, when Benzema’s contract was set to expire. However, Benzema’s surprise decision to depart for Saudi Arabia’s Al Ittihad has caused Madrid to modify their plans and concentrate acquiring a high-quality striking lineup for the forthcoming season.
“That’s where we have to act, and we’re going to do it without any rush,” Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti said. “We have plenty of time to complete it without feeling rushed. We’re searching for a striker who can score goals and work well with the rest of the team.”
Madrid is nearing a deal to sign Joselu to replace Mariano, but they now require a first-choice No. 9 to fill the void left by Benzema. The difficulty stems from the market’s limited options, with Haaland and Mbappe both committed to Manchester City and Paris Saint-Germain for at least one more season.
Roberto Firmino, available on a free transfer after leaving Liverpool, and Chelsea’s Kai Havertz have been linked to Madrid. However, club insiders recognize that Kane is the only attacker currently available who consistently provides the good results year after year.
Harry Kane in Los Blanco’s radar for Benzema’s place
However, there are reservations within the club about signing the Premier League striker. Kane is going to turn 30 years old very soon. Madrid’s recent transfer strategy has focused on recruiting young talents such as Vinicius Junior, Rodrygo, Eduardo Camavinga, and Aurelien Tchouameni.
Real Madrid recognizes that acquiring Kane would most likely necessitate a fee of around €100 million, which would have a significant impact on the club’s summer budget, which already includes significant investments in Jude Bellingham and reinforcements for various positions.
Furthermore, President Florentino Perez has previous experience with difficult negotiations with Tottenham chairman Daniel Levy during the signings of Luka Modri and Gareth Bale.
“At the moment, we only have two forwards.”
“But I’m not worried because we have all the time we need to sort it out,” Ancelotti explained.
“You can win with or without forwards.” Forwards are more likely to score.”
“But it is when a team plays solidly, compactly, with effort, and as a team that makes the difference.”
As a result, while Madrid considers a move for Kane, they are also looking into other options. Previous reports suggested that they were interested in other attackers such as Kane’s Tottenham colleague Richarlison and Dusan Vlahovic from Juventus, highlighting the club’s conviction in upgrading the attack even with Benzema slated to stay.
Just recently, the Ballon d’Or winner and three other forwards — Marco Asensio, Eden Hazard and Mariano departed from the club. Madrid is set to bring Joselu on loan and welcome back Brahim Diaz from his loan spell at AC Milan. These signings, however, will not be final, as Madrid seeks to strengthen their frontline.
